APA Dictionary of Psychology

in DSM–IV–TR, a pattern of repeated or compulsive use of opioids (e.g., morphine, heroin) despite significant opioid-related behavioral, physiological, and psychosocial problems and/or tolerance or characteristic withdrawal symptoms if use is suspended (see opioid withdrawal). In DSM–5 and DSM-5-TR, opioid dependence and opioid abuse have been subsumed into opioid use disorder and are no longer considered distinct diagnoses. Also called narcotic dependence. See also substance dependence.