Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

subtherapeutic

adjective
/ˌsʌbˈθɛrəpjuːtɪk/
Definition
Referring to a dose of medication that is lower than the therapeutic range necessary to achieve the desired effect.
Examples
  • The doctor adjusted the patient’s medication from subtherapeutic to therapeutic levels.
  • Using subtherapeutic doses of antibiotics can lead to resistance.
  • Subtherapeutic treatment may not provide the intended health benefits.
Meaning
Subtherapeutic indicates a dosage that does not reach the level required for effective treatment of a condition.
Synonyms
  • Insufficient
  • Suboptimal
  • Below effective dose