What does the term 'therapeutic index' indicate?

The term 'therapeutic index' refers specifically to the ratio of the toxic dose to the therapeutic dose of a drug. This measurement is crucial in pharmacology because it provides insight into the safety and effectiveness of a medication. A higher therapeutic index indicates a wider margin between effective and toxic doses, suggesting that the drug is safer to use, while a lower index means there's a greater risk of toxicity.

In clinical practice, understanding the therapeutic index helps healthcare professionals determine appropriate dosing regimens and assess potential risks associated with drug therapy. Monitoring and adjusting medication dosages based on the therapeutic index can also aid in achieving desired therapeutic outcomes while minimizing adverse effects.