MINIMUM DOSE Meaning and
Definition
-
Minimum dose refers to the smallest amount or concentration of a medication, substance, or treatment that is still effective in producing a desired therapeutic or physiological effect. In medicine, the concept of minimum dose is based on the principle of "less is more" or "the law of minimums," which suggests that the smallest possible dose capable of producing a response should be used to minimize side effects and potential harm to the patient.
The concept of minimum dose is often associated with homeopathy, an alternative medical system that believes in the use of highly diluted substances to stimulate the body's self-healing mechanisms. According to homeopathic principles, the more a substance is diluted, the more potent it becomes, so the minimum dose is crucial in achieving the desired therapeutic effect.
The minimum dose in homeopathy typically involves serial dilution of the original substance, followed by vigorous shaking or succussion, to enhance its healing properties while reducing any potential toxicity. This process continues until the desired dilution is reached, often far beyond the point where a single molecule of the original substance remains.
In a broader context, minimum dose can also refer to the idea of using the smallest possible amount of any medication, substance, or treatment in conventional medicine to minimize adverse effects and cumulative damage to the body. By minimizing the dosage, healthcare practitioners aim to achieve the desired therapeutic outcome while reducing the risks associated with treatment.
Overall, the concept of minimum dose underscores the importance of precision, caution, and careful titration when administering medications and treatments to ensure optimal therapeutic benefits while minimizing potential harm.
-
The smallest amount of a drug which will produce a physiological effect in an adult.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MINIMUM DOSE
- ninimum dose
- kinimum dose
- jinimum dose
- munimum dose
- mjnimum dose
- mknimum dose
- monimum dose
- m9nimum dose
- m8nimum dose
- mibimum dose
- mimimum dose
- mijimum dose
- mihimum dose
- minumum dose
- minjmum dose
- minkmum dose
- minomum dose
- min9mum dose
- min8mum dose
- mininum dose
Etymology of MINIMUM DOSE
The term "minimum dose" is derived from the Latin word "minimum" which means "smallest" or "least". The word "dose" comes from the Greek word "dosis", which means "gift" or "portion". When combined, "minimum dose" refers to the smallest possible quantity or amount of a substance given in medicine or homeopathy to produce an effect.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
