Which condition is characterized by compulsive drug use despite harmful consequences?

Addiction is characterized by compulsive drug use despite harmful consequences. This condition involves both a physical and psychological component, leading individuals to prioritize their drug use above all else, often in the face of severe negative outcomes such as health issues, relationship problems, or legal troubles.

In addiction, the brain undergoes changes that reinforce the compulsive behavior, making it difficult for individuals to quit even when they recognize the damage it causes. The compulsive nature of addiction stems from the brain's reward system, which becomes increasingly dependent on the substances to feel pleasure or relief from discomfort.

In contrast, withdrawal refers to the symptoms that occur when an individual stops using a substance after prolonged use, dependency involves a physical or psychological reliance on a drug that may not necessarily include compulsive behavior, and tolerance is the process where increasing amounts of a substance are needed to achieve the same effect. Thus, these terms relate to different aspects of substance use but do not encompass the full behavioral pattern of continued use despite harm that is central to addiction.