Final answer:
An undesirable and potentially harmful drug effect is known as an adverse effect or side effect. Drug abuse and dependence can lead to these effects and include compulsive use and withdrawal symptoms if usage stops.
Step-by-step explanation:
The general term for an undesirable and potentially harmful drug effect is adverse effect or side effect. These adverse effects can manifest in various forms, from immediate severe reactions like death to less apparent changes that may not be noticeable until much later. Often these effects stem from changes to specific biochemical processes in the body. Understanding the differences between drug abuse, drug dependence, and related issues like withdrawal symptoms and psychological dependence is critical in the context of substance use disorders. Drug abuse refers to using a substance without medical advice and outside its intended purpose. On the other hand, drug dependence may develop after prolonged use, leading to withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit.
Addiction is characterized by the compulsive use of a substance such as psychoactive drugs despite the negative consequences that such use may entail. Certain psychoactive substances have the potential for misuse, addiction, and dependence, which could be physical, psychological, or both. Physical dependence means the body has adapted to the drug's presence and may experience physical withdrawal symptoms without it, while psychological dependence refers to the drug craving and emotional responses associated with its use.