Intermediate
Technical
IVT
Tolerance
A physiological state where increasing amounts of a substance are needed to achieve the same effect previously produced by smaller amounts.
Full Definition
Tolerance is a hallmark of substance dependence where the body adapts to repeated exposure to a drug, requiring progressively higher doses to achieve the same therapeutic or euphoric effects. This occurs through neuroadaptive changes in receptor sensitivity and drug metabolism. In addiction medicine documentation, tolerance must be carefully distinguished from physical dependence and addiction itself, as tolerance can develop even with prescribed medications used appropriately.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from addiction - tolerance alone does not constitute substance use disorder.
In Context
- "The patient developed tolerance to oxycodone after three months of prescribed use for chronic pain." — Medical chart note
- "Tolerance assessment indicated the need for dose adjustment in the treatment protocol." — Treatment plan documentation
Also known as
drug tolerance
physiological tolerance
Contrasted with
sensitivity
intolerance
Don't confuse with
physical dependence
addiction