Which of the following is a symptom of drug withdrawal?

Answer Details

Drug withdrawal refers to the set of physical and psychological symptoms that occur when a person who has developed dependence on a substance suddenly reduces or stops using it. The body, having adapted to the regular presence of the drug, reacts adversely when it is no longer available.

The characteristic symptoms of withdrawal include cravings (an intense desire to take the drug again), sweating, tremors (involuntary shaking), and anxiety. Other common symptoms may include nausea, irritability, insomnia, muscle aches, and in severe cases, seizures. These symptoms arise because the nervous system has adjusted its neurotransmitter levels to compensate for the drug's presence, and removing the drug leaves the system in an unbalanced state.

The remaining options describe the opposite of what occurs during withdrawal. Increased appetite and feeling well-rested, a sudden increase in energy and euphoria, or feelings of calm and relaxation would suggest the body is comfortable without the drug. In reality, withdrawal is a distressing experience that often drives people back to drug use, which is why supervised medical detoxification is recommended for individuals with substance dependence.