cross-tolerance
Development of tolerance to one substance resulting in tolerance to chemically similar substances.
Full Definition
A pharmacological phenomenon where tolerance developed to one substance confers tolerance to other substances with similar mechanisms of action or chemical structures. This occurs most commonly within drug classes such as benzodiazepines, opioids, or alcohol and barbiturates. Cross-tolerance has important clinical implications for withdrawal management, as one substance can often substitute for another to prevent withdrawal symptoms, and for understanding why individuals may switch between substances within the same drug class.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate in all uses. Distinguish from cross-addiction, which refers to developing addiction to multiple substances.
In Context
- "Cross-tolerance between alcohol and benzodiazepines allows for substitution therapy during detoxification." — Medical treatment protocol
- "The patient's opioid tolerance resulted in cross-tolerance to prescribed pain medications." — Clinical case note