Which pharmacological principle explains why repeated drug administration can lead to decreased effect?

A Synergism

B Tolerance — reduced responsiveness to a drug after repeated exposure requiring higher doses

C Potentiation

D Bioavailability

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

Tolerance: diminished pharmacological response to a drug with repeated use. Pharmacokinetic (increased metabolism) or pharmacodynamic (receptor downregulation). Tachyphylaxis: rapid tolerance development.

💡 Why is B) the correct answer?

The correct answer to the question "Which pharmacological principle explains why repeated drug administration can lead to decreased effect?" is Option B: Tolerance — reduced responsiveness to a drug after repeated exposure requiring higher doses.

The other options — A) Synergism, C) Potentiation, D) Bioavailability — are incorrect for this USMLE Exam Prep question. As explained above: Tolerance: diminished pharmacological response to a drug with repeated use. Pharmacokinetic (increased metabolism) or pharmacodynamic (receptor downregulation). Tachyphylaxis: rapid tolerance develop…

📚 About This USMLE Exam Prep Practice Question

This 2-level USMLE Exam Prep question from the Step 1 - Basic Sciences topic is part of BrainForge Quiz's free exam preparation library. Each question includes the correct answer and a detailed explanation to help you understand the underlying concept, not just memorize the answer.

How to use this page: Read the question above, consider all four options (A through D), then check the highlighted correct answer and explanation. For active timed practice, start a free USMLE Exam Prep practice test or use flashcards for spaced repetition review.

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Which pharmacological principle explains why repeated drug administration can lead to decreased effect?

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

📚 About This USMLE Exam Prep Practice Question

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