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Addiction is addiction, but there are people who "maintain" their addictions by rarely, if ever, using more drug (or alcohol) than is needed to keep them from feeling the discomfort of withdrawal. Methadone and Suboxone maintenance are examples, and there are individuals who do it on their own with other drugs, especially opioids and alcohol.

Nonetheless, these people are addicted. They cannot function normally without the drugs in their system, they suffer discomfort if they do not have the drugs, and the drugs are not of the type that are taken for chronic conditions -- such as antidepressants and other psych medications.

It is arguable if they are "less" addicted than others who choose to use more drugs. They can function better, are in many cases able to hold down jobs and maintain their place in the community, and appear to live normal lives. We call these people "functional addicts" (or alcoholics). However, they still need the drugs, and they still suffer withdrawal if they do not have them. Physically, they are just as addicted as anyone else, and as much in need of help to escape the chains that bind them.

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