National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

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Prepare for the NCAC II Test. Study using flashcards and multiple choice questions, each equipped with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

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In the context of pharmacology, a narrow therapeutic index indicates what?

  1. A higher safety margin

  2. A greater risk of toxicity

  3. Improved efficacy

  4. More side effects

The correct answer is: A greater risk of toxicity

In pharmacology, a narrow therapeutic index refers to the small range between the minimum effective dose and the minimum toxic dose of a medication. This means that there is very little difference between doses that are effective and those that could cause toxicity. As a result, drugs with a narrow therapeutic index carry a greater risk of toxicity, making careful monitoring of drug levels and patient response crucial. This characteristic indicates that even slight alterations in dosage or drug levels can lead to significant adverse effects and complications, underscoring the importance of precision in dosing.