an intense biochemical response that is nearly impossible to resist

A strong yearning or desire to consume or indulge in alcohol.

an intense desire to smoke.

In many instances, a craving for a drug can be enforced by a physical urge - where the body needs the drug to maintain a desired state or avoid an unwanted one. In the case of heroin addiction or alcoholism, a craving for the drug is usually strengthened by a strong desire to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

The intense desire for something (also called "psychologic dependence"). | Close window

A powerful, often uncontrollable desire for drugs.

A craving is a powerful, often uncontrollable urge for a particular thing.

Hunger for drugs. It is caused by drug-induced changes that occur in the brain with the development of addiction and arises from a need of the brain to maintain a state of homeostasis that includes the presence of the drug.