What does the term "tolerance" refer to in substance use?

The term "tolerance" in substance use specifically refers to the phenomenon where, after repeated consumption of a substance, an individual experiences a diminished response to that substance. This means that over time, a person may need to consume larger amounts of the substance to achieve the same effect that they previously experienced with smaller doses. Tolerance is an important concept in understanding substance use disorders, as it can indicate a developing physical dependence on the substance.

Understanding tolerance is crucial for recognizing patterns of substance use and predicting potential issues related to dependence and addiction. When individuals develop tolerance, they may not only increase their intake to achieve desired effects, but they might also overlook the risks associated with higher doses, leading to more severe health consequences. This contrasts with other terms in the context of substance use; for example, craving refers to a strong desire for the substance, abstinence indicates a choice to refrain from use, and withdrawal symptoms occur when the substance is reduced or eliminated after regular use. Each of these has a distinct meaning in the broader narrative of substance use and dependence.