A dose-response relationship describes how the effect of a substance, such as a drug or toxin, changes with varying amounts of that substance. Typically, as the dose increases, the response or effect also increases, up to a certain point. This relationship helps scientists understand the potency and safety of medications and environmental chemicals. In pharmacology, the dose-response curve is a graphical representation of this relationship, showing the correlation between the dose of a drug and the magnitude of its effect. Understanding these curves is crucial for determining the appropriate dosage for achieving desired therapeutic effects while minimizing adverse effects.