Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Rapid Cycling
Pattern of frequent relapse and remission in substance use disorders, particularly challenging for treatment planning.
Full Definition
Rapid cycling refers to a pattern where individuals experience frequent episodes of active substance use followed by brief periods of abstinence or reduced use. This pattern is particularly common in stimulant use disorders and indicates underlying issues with sustained recovery. Unlike the psychiatric term used in bipolar disorder, rapid cycling in addiction medicine specifically describes the cyclical nature of substance use patterns that require specialized intervention strategies and closer monitoring.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as an adjective; distinguish from bipolar disorder context.
In Context
- "The patient's rapid cycling between cocaine use and brief abstinence periods complicated treatment engagement." — Case conference notes
- "Rapid cycling patterns often require more intensive outpatient services to maintain stability." — Treatment recommendation
Also known as
cycling pattern
episodic use
Contrasted with
sustained recovery
stable abstinence
Don't confuse with
relapse
binge pattern