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 research, dose-response relationships are often represented graphically, showing the correlation between dose and effect. This information is crucial for determining the appropriate dosage for medications, ensuring that patients receive enough to be effective without causing harmful side effects. Understanding these relationships is essential in fields like pharmacology and toxicology.