For example, some opioids like codeine or tramadol have a low ceiling effect for their analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. Increasing the dosage beyond a certain point does not provide additional pain relief but can significantly increase the risk of side effects and overdose.
The concept of low ceiling effect is important in clinical practice as it guides healthcare providers to use the most appropriate dosage for a drug to achieve the desired therapeutic effect while minimizing the risk of adverse reactions. It also helps in understanding the limitations of certain medications and underscores the need to consider alternative treatments or combination therapies in cases where higher efficacy is required beyond the drug's ceiling effect.