Which term refers to the diminished effect of a drug due to repeated exposure, often requiring higher doses?

Which term refers to the diminished effect of a drug due to repeated exposure, often requiring higher doses?

• A. Tolerance
• B. Intoxication
• C. Dependence
• D. Cross-tolerance

Answer: (A)

Repeated exposure to a drug often reduces its effect, a phenomenon known as tolerance. As you use a drug over time, the body adapts, so the same dose produces less of a response, and a higher dose may be needed to regain the original effect. This can happen through changes in how the body processes the drug (pharmacokinetic tolerance, such as increased enzyme activity) or changes at the site of action (pharmacodynamic tolerance, like receptors becoming less responsive or downregulated). This is different from intoxication, which is the acute, noticeable effect while under the influence; dependence, which is the state of needing the drug to function or to avoid withdrawal symptoms; and cross-tolerance, where tolerance to one drug reduces sensitivity to a different drug, often within the same class.

Repeated exposure to a drug often reduces its effect, a phenomenon known as tolerance. As you use a drug over time, the body adapts, so the same dose produces less of a response, and a higher dose may be needed to regain the original effect. This can happen through changes in how the body processes the drug (pharmacokinetic tolerance, such as increased enzyme activity) or changes at the site of action (pharmacodynamic tolerance, like receptors becoming less responsive or downregulated). This is different from intoxication, which is the acute, noticeable effect while under the influence; dependence, which is the state of needing the drug to function or to avoid withdrawal symptoms; and cross-tolerance, where tolerance to one drug reduces sensitivity to a different drug, often within the same class.