What is the term for the body's adaptation to a substance that leads to decreased responsiveness?

The term that describes the body's adaptation to a substance, which results in decreased responsiveness to its effects, is tolerance. Tolerance occurs when an individual needs to consume more of a substance to achieve the same effect that was initially experienced with a lower dose. This phenomenon can happen with various substances, including medications and recreational drugs, as the body becomes accustomed to their presence and adjusts its physiological responses accordingly. As a result, the user may find that what once produced a significant effect now requires a higher amount to elicit a similar response. Understanding tolerance is crucial in substance use and its potential risks, as it often leads to increased consumption and can contribute to other issues like dependence or addiction.