Which term means a lessened effect?

• A. Tolerance
• B. Cumulation
• C. Toxicity
• D. Synergism

Answer: (A)

Tolerance is the term for a lessened effect. When a drug is used repeatedly, the body adapts, and the same dose produces a smaller response. This can happen through changes in receptors, increased drug-metabolizing enzymes, or other adaptive mechanisms, which may mean a higher dose is needed to achieve the same effect—always under prescriber guidance.

Cumulation (accumulation) means the drug builds up in the body over time, leading to an increased or prolonged effect, not a diminished one. Toxicity refers to harmful, damaging effects that occur at high drug levels. Synergism is when two drugs together produce a stronger effect than either would alone, not a reduced one.