ProcessIntermediate
How does tolerance to a drug develop according to the chapter on Drugs and the Mind?
Tolerance to a drug develops as the body increases its production of enzymes that break down the drug and as nerve cells become less responsive to it. Consequently, individuals may need to take larger or more frequent doses to achieve the same effect.
Key points
- Tolerance is a progressive decrease in drug effectiveness.
- The body produces more enzymes to break down the drug.
- Nerve cells may change to become less responsive to the drug.
- Increased tolerance can require larger doses for the same effect.
Source:Biology of Humans Concepts, Applications, and Issues by Judith Goodenough and Betty McGuire· SPECIAL TOPIC: Drugs and the Mind· p. 178–184
Biology of Humans Concepts, Applications, and Issues by Judith Goodenough and Betty McGuire
Judith Goodenough and Betty McGuire
6th Edition