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Alcohol Dependence

By , About.com Guide

Updated September 04, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: Drinking despite recurrent social, interpersonal, and legal problems as a result of alcohol use as well as developing drink-seeking behavior, alcohol tolerance and withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit.
Also Known As: Chemically dependent
Examples:
Although he drank only a little each day, he became alcohol dependent.

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