Define the word tolerance. What does cross-tolerance mean? Give an example of cross-tolerance.
Answer: Tolerance is an acquired reaction to a drug; continued intake of the same dose has diminished effect. Cross-tolerance is the transfer of tolerance from one drug to another within the same general category. An example of cross-tolerance could be an individual who is a heavy alcoholic who would need a preoperative sedative to become relaxed prior to surgery in comparison to an average person.