Given below are two statements:
Statement I: With repeated use of drugs, the tolerance level of the receptors present in our body decreases.
Statement II: Dependence is the tendency of the body to manifest a characteristic and unpleasant withdrawal syndrome if regular dose of drugs/alcohol is abruptly discontinued.
In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct
Drugs are often used again and again because of their perceived benefits. Two things then follow. The receptors of the body become more tolerant, so a bigger dose is needed (addiction grows). And the body comes to depend on the drug, so stopping it suddenly brings on withdrawal symptoms (dependence).
Statement I: With repeated use of drugs, the tolerance level of the receptors present in our body decreases. — False. The tolerance level increases. The receptors then respond only to higher doses, which leads to greater intake and addiction.
Statement II: Dependence is the tendency of the body to manifest a characteristic and unpleasant withdrawal syndrome if regular dose of drugs/alcohol is abruptly discontinued. — True. This is the book’s definition of dependence. The withdrawal syndrome shows anxiety, shakiness, nausea and sweating.
NCERT Extract:
Addiction and Dependence – “… With repeated use of drugs, the tolerance level of the receptors present in our body increases. Consequently the receptors respond only to higher doses of drugs or alcohol leading to greater intake and addiction. … Dependence is the tendency of the body to manifest a characteristic and unpleasant withdrawal syndrome if regular dose of drugs/alcohol is abruptly discontinued. This is characterised by anxiety, shakiness, nausea and sweating, which may be relieved when use is resumed again.”