What term describes effects that occur after prolonged intake of a medication due to accumulation in the bloodstream?

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The term that describes effects resulting from prolonged intake of a medication due to accumulation in the bloodstream is toxic effects. Toxic effects arise when the level of the drug in the body reaches a point where it causes harm or adverse reactions. This can happen due to various reasons, including factors such as high doses, prolonged use, or a patient's inability to metabolize or excrete the drug efficiently.

In the context of medication safety, understanding toxic effects is essential because they can lead to serious health concerns if not recognized and managed promptly. Monitoring drug levels, especially for medications with narrow therapeutic windows, is crucial to prevent toxicity and ensure the patient's well-being.

The other terms refer to different types of adverse drug reactions: side effects are generally predictable and manageable adverse reactions that occur with normal dosages; idiosyncratic reactions are uncommon and unpredictable responses that are not related to the drug's pharmacological properties; and allergic reactions are specific immune system responses that can vary in severity.

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