Alcohol addiction, or alcoholism, can follow a similar trajectory, but the pattern of oral drug taking is often characterized by binges of alcohol intake that can be daily episodes or prolonged days of heavy drinking and is characterized by a severe emotional and somatic withdrawal syndrome. Many alcoholics continue with such a binge/withdrawal pattern for extended periods, but some individuals can evolve into an opioid-like situation in which they must have alcohol available at all times to avoid the negative consequences of abstinence. Tobacco addiction contrasts with the above patterns—the binge/intoxication stage forms a minor component of nicotine dependence. The pattern of nicotine intake is one of highly titrated intake of the drug except during periods of sleep. However, during abstinence, users experience negative emotional states, including dysphoria, irritability, and intense craving. Marijuana Dependence follows a pattern similar to opioids and tobacco, with a significant intoxication stage, but as chronic use continues, subjects begin to show a pattern of use manifest by chronic intoxication during waking hours and withdrawal characterized by dysphoria, irritability, and sleep disturbances. Psychostimulants, such as cocaine
