Describe the concept of drug tolerance.

Drug tolerance refers to the phenomenon where an individual experiences a diminished response to a drug after repeated use over time. As a person continues to take the same dosage of a medication, the body may adapt to the drug's effects, leading to a situation where higher doses are required to achieve the same therapeutic effect that was previously experienced with lower doses. This adaptation can occur due to various mechanisms, including changes in drug metabolism, receptor sensitivity, or the body's overall physiological response to the drug.

In the context of pharmacokinetics, tolerance is particularly relevant because it affects both the efficacy and safety of a drug regimen. A patient who develops tolerance may need to adjust their dosage or switch to a different medication to achieve the desired therapeutic outcomes. Understanding drug tolerance is crucial for healthcare providers in managing long-term treatments, especially for chronic conditions where medication adherence is key to effective management.