Which statement about addiction, physical dependence, and tolerance is most accurate?

Which statement about addiction, physical dependence, and tolerance is most accurate?

• A. Tolerance, physical dependence, and addiction are completely distinct and never co-occur.
• B. Addiction equals withdrawal.
• C. Tolerance is a reduced response requiring higher doses; physical dependence is withdrawal symptoms on abrupt cessation or antagonist exposure; addiction is compulsive use despite harm.
• D. These concepts are unrelated and have no clinical overlap.

Answer: (D)