What does the term "titration" mean regarding medication dosages?

Titration refers to the process of adjusting a medication dosage based on the patient's response to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. This involves gradually increasing or decreasing the dose until the optimal amount is found that effectively manages the condition while minimizing side effects. This approach is especially important for drugs that have a narrow therapeutic index or varying levels of effectiveness among different individuals. It ensures that the patient receives the most beneficial dose tailored specifically to their needs, promoting effectiveness and safety in treatment.

In contrast, administering the maximum dose from the start can increase the risk of adverse effects and is not tailored to the individual's response. Giving medication at fixed intervals does not take into account the need for adjustment based on how the patient is responding. Finally, canceling a medication due to side effects does not reflect the practice of adjusting the dosage within the titration process, which often aims to find a balance where benefits outweigh any unwanted effects.