Define the Different Types of Tolerance and Give Examples of Drugs

Question

Examlex · Accepted Answer

The Answer is There are several types of tolerance that can occur with drug use. These include:

1. Pharmacodynamic tolerance: This type of tolerance occurs when the body becomes less responsive to a drug over time. This can happen when the body adjusts to the presence of a drug and reduces the number of receptors available for the drug to bind to. Examples of drugs that can cause pharmacodynamic tolerance include opioids such as morphine and heroin.

2. Metabolic tolerance: Metabolic tolerance occurs when the body becomes more efficient at metabolizing a drug, leading to reduced effects. This can happen with drugs like alcohol and caffeine, where the body becomes better at breaking down and eliminating the substance.

3. Tachyphylaxis: This type of tolerance refers to a rapid decrease in response to a drug after repeated doses over a short period of time. This can occur with drugs like nitroglycerin, which is used to treat angina.

4. Behavioral tolerance: Behavioral tolerance occurs when a person learns to function normally despite the presence of a drug. This can happen with drugs like benzodiazepines, where individuals may develop tolerance to the sedative effects but still show impairment in cognitive and motor skills.

It's important to note that tolerance can lead to increased drug use, which can in turn lead to dependence and addiction. It's always important to use medications as prescribed and to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with drug tolerance or addiction.

Define the Different Types of Tolerance and Give Examples of Drugs

Definitions: