What is a strong, sometimes fatal reaction to taking a large amount of a drug?

A strong, sometimes fatal reaction to taking a large amount of a drug is referred to as a drug overdose. This condition occurs when an individual consumes a dose of a substance that exceeds the body's capacity to metabolize or tolerate it, leading to severe physiological disturbances. The effects of a drug overdose can vary widely depending on the substance, the amount ingested, and the individual's health, but they commonly include respiratory failure, cardiac arrest, and other life-threatening complications. Prompt medical attention is essential in cases of overdose to minimize the risk of serious consequences or death.

Other options refer to different concepts related to drug use and health but do not specifically describe the immediate danger posed by taking an excessive amount of a substance. An allergic reaction, for example, is an immune system response that can occur with the introduction of a drug, but it does not encompass all scenarios of high drug dosage. Withdrawal syndrome occurs when a person reduces or stops taking a drug they are dependent on, leading to physical and mental symptoms, while drug tolerance refers to the body's adaptation to the drug over time, requiring larger amounts to achieve the same effects.