How to Identify Tolerance to Alcohol

What does it mean when someone needs to drink more alcohol to achieve the same effects they used to get from a smaller amount?

a) Tolerance b) Dependence c) Withdrawal d) Addiction

Answer:

Option a) Tolerance

When someone needs to drink more alcohol to achieve the same effects they used to get from a smaller amount, it indicates that they have developed a tolerance to alcohol.

Tolerance refers to a condition where a person requires more of a substance to achieve the same effects that were previously experienced at lower doses. In the case of Susie needing several glasses of wine to achieve the same relaxation she used to get from one, it shows that her body has built up a tolerance to alcohol.

It's important to differentiate between tolerance, dependence, and addiction. Dependence refers to changes in normal bodily functions leading to withdrawal symptoms when the substance use is ceased. Addiction indicates a chronic issue where the use of a substance can permanently alter neural structure in the brain, leading to a driven need to use the substance, often leading to relapse.

In the scenario provided, Susie's behavior of needing more alcohol to achieve the same effect clearly demonstrates Tolerance, as she requires an increased amount of alcohol to achieve the same relaxing effect she used to get from a smaller amount.