Which term describes not using a drug properly, even when prescribed, such as taking an incorrect dose or stopping medication too soon?

• A. Misuse
• B. Abuse
• C. Dependence
• D. Addiction

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is describing medication misuse—using a prescribed drug in a way that isn’t appropriate or intended. This includes taking the wrong dose or stopping the medicine earlier than advised, even though a clinician prescribed it. Misuse focuses on incorrect use of the drug rather than cravings, dependence, or nonmedical reasons for taking it.

Abuse involves using drugs for nonmedical purposes or to get high, which goes beyond simply misusing a prescribed regimen. Dependence is about the body adapting to the drug and experiencing withdrawal symptoms if it’s stopped, which can occur with proper use. Addiction is a broader, chronic pattern of compulsive use despite harm, often with loss of control.