Physical dependence means the body has adapted to the regular presence of a substance and reacts when it is removed, producing withdrawal symptoms. It is a physiological process and can occur with medicines that carry no potential for craving or compulsive use, such as some blood pressure medicines.
Physical dependence is not the same as addiction, which describes compulsive use despite harm. Confusing the two causes real distress, and a prescriber or pharmacist can explain which, if either, applies to a specific medicine.