What is defined as a strong craving for drugs without the presence of withdrawal symptoms?

The term that best describes a strong craving for drugs without the presence of withdrawal symptoms is addiction. This condition encompasses the compulsive seeking and use of a substance, even when it leads to negative consequences, which can include feelings of intense desire or craving.

Dependency typically refers to a state where the body has adapted to a substance, leading to withdrawal symptoms when the substance is not taken. Tolerance involves needing progressively larger doses of a substance to achieve the same effect over time and is often a sign of physical dependency. Intoxication refers to the state of being under the influence of drugs and experiencing their effects on the mind and body, rather than the craving aspect.

Addiction is characterized mainly by psychological components, highlighting how craving can occur independently of physical dependency and withdrawal symptoms.