Tolerance

Tolerance is a biological concept that refers to the diminished response of an organism to a specific stimulus, often as a result of repeated or prolonged exposure. This can occur in various contexts, such as drug tolerance, immune tolerance, and psychological tolerance.

Drug Tolerance

Drug tolerance is a pharmacological concept where the effect of a drug diminishes over time with repeated use. This can lead to increased dosage requirements to achieve the same effect, which can potentially lead to drug dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

Immune Tolerance

Immune tolerance is a state of unresponsiveness of the immune system to substances or tissue that have the capacity to elicit an immune response. It is a crucial aspect of the immune system that prevents it from attacking the body's own cells, thereby preventing autoimmune diseases.

Psychological Tolerance

Psychological tolerance refers to a person's diminished response to a stimulus or drug resulting from repeated exposure. This can occur with both beneficial and harmful stimuli, leading to potential issues such as addiction or desensitization.

See Also

• Desensitization (medicine)
• Habituation
• Sensitization