Intermediate
Technical
IVT
tolerance
Physiological adaptation requiring increased substance amounts to achieve the same effect, distinct from psychological dependence.
Full Definition
A pharmacological phenomenon where repeated exposure to a substance leads to decreased response, requiring larger doses to achieve the same effect. In clinical documentation, tolerance is a specific diagnostic criterion that editors must distinguish from physical dependence, psychological dependence, and addiction. Tolerance can occur with prescribed medications and does not automatically indicate substance use disorder or misuse.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from dependence and addiction - tolerance alone does not indicate substance use disorder.
In Context
- "The patient developed tolerance to prescribed opioid pain medication without showing signs of substance use disorder." — Medical chart note
- "Clinical assessment revealed tolerance as evidenced by the client's need to double their alcohol intake over six months." — Diagnostic assessment
Contrasted with
sensitivity
Don't confuse with
physical dependence
addiction
psychological dependence