Abstract: An overcurrent detection circuit comprises: a switch provided between a power supply and a load for switching connection on/off between the power supply and the load; a current detector for detecting a load current flowing in the load; a reference value generator which outputs a reference value of a predetermined first level at the ON-time of the switch means and reduces the level of the reference value with passage of time from the ON-time so as to converge the level of the reference value to a predetermined second level; and an overcurrent signal generator which compares the detected load current with the reference value and outputs an overcurrent signal when the load current reaches or exceeds the reference value.