What describes an increased effect resulting from multiple doses?

• A. Adverse Effect
• B. Indication
• C. Cumulative Action
• D. Depressant

Answer: (C)

Cumulative action describes an increased effect resulting from multiple doses. When successive doses are given before the body has fully cleared the previous one, the drug accumulates in the bloodstream. Each new dose adds to the remaining amount, so the plasma concentration rises and the overall pharmacologic effect becomes stronger than with a single dose. This buildup occurs especially when dosing intervals are short relative to the drug’s half-life, leading to a higher steady-state level and potentially greater therapeutic or, if not carefully managed, toxic effects. The other terms don’t fit this situation: an adverse effect is an unwanted reaction, an indication is a reason to use the drug, and a depressant is a drug class description rather than the phenomenon of effect increase from repeated dosing.