A 34 year old has been on morphine for 6 months after back surgery and has gone to multiple health care providers to obtain prescriptions.Which term best describes this situation?

A) Medication dependence
B) Medication abuse
C) Medication misuse
D) Medication underuse

Medication abuse happens when patients repeatedly use an addictive substance (e.g.,opioids or alcohol).Medication dependence happens when a patient experiences withdrawal symptoms when the medication is stopped abruptly.Medication misuse includes overuse,underuse,erratic use,and contraindicated use of medications.Patients of all ages misuse medications.Some people use medications for purposes other than their intended effect.Medication underuse occurs when people use medications less than the amount intended when symptoms subside