What can occur when a person develops tolerance to a stimulant drug?

When a person develops tolerance to a stimulant drug, they require an increased dosage to achieve the same effects they initially experienced. Tolerance occurs as the body adapts to the presence of the drug, leading to a diminished response. This can happen through various physiological changes, such as alterations in receptor sensitivity or metabolic processes that make the body more efficient at eliminating the drug.

As tolerance builds, the normal dose may no longer result in the desired stimulant effects, prompting individuals to consume higher doses to regain those effects. This increase in dosage can lead to a cycle of escalating use, which can increase the risk for dependence and potential negative health consequences. It's important to be aware that developing tolerance does not equate to improved health or stable effects; rather, it indicates that the body's response to the drug is changing in a way that often necessitates greater consumption to achieve the same results.