Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The NOAEL is the highest tested dose or exposure level at which no adverse effects are observed in any individuals during a study.
Related terms
LOAEL (Lowest-Observed-Adverse-Effect Level): The LOAEL is the lowest tested dose or exposure level at which adverse effects are observed during a study.
Threshold: A threshold refers to the point below which no harmful effects occur. In terms of toxicity, it represents the lowest exposure level where adverse effects start appearing.
Margin of Safety: Margin of safety is an important concept used in risk assessment, which compares the estimated safe dose or exposure level to the actual dose or exposure level experienced by individuals.
"NOAEL (No-Observed-Adverse-Effect Level)" also found in: