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
Drug therapies refer to the use of medication to treat mental disorders. These medications are prescribed by healthcare professionals and can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being.
The placebo effect is when a person experiences improvements in their condition due to believing they are receiving treatment, even if the treatment itself is inactive.
Side effects are unwanted or unexpected reactions that may occur as a result of taking medication. These can range from mild discomfort to more severe complications.
Tolerance refers to the body's ability to adapt and become less responsive to the effects of a certain medication over time, requiring higher doses for the same desired outcome.