This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Learn more

Tolerance

Definition

A decrease in a drug's effect over time with repeated administration, requiring higher doses to achieve the same response. Tolerance develops through receptor downregulation, enzyme induction, or other adaptive mechanisms.

Example

Patients taking opioids for chronic pain may develop tolerance, requiring dose increases over time to maintain the same level of pain relief.

Related Terms

Mentioned in Guides