What is the term used to describe the effect of a medication that develops after prolonged use?

The term "tolerance" refers to the phenomenon where the body becomes accustomed to a medication after prolonged use, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. This occurs as the body adapts to the presence of the drug, whether through metabolic changes that increase the rate of drug breakdown or physiological changes that reduce the drug's effectiveness.

Tolerance is significant for healthcare providers and patients because it can lead to the need for increased dosages to maintain the desired therapeutic effect, which might raise the risk of side effects or complications. Unlike "dependence," which indicates a withdrawal syndrome upon discontinuation of the drug, tolerance specifically relates to the diminishing effects of the drug itself over time.

Understanding tolerance is essential for managing medication regimens effectively and ensuring safe and therapeutic outcomes for patients. This term is distinct from other concepts in pharmacology, underscoring the importance of patient education and monitoring during medication therapy.