The foundational principles of toxicology include:
The Dose Makes the Poison: This principle, introduced by Paracelsus, emphasizes that the toxicity of a substance depends on its dose. Individual Susceptibility: Different individuals may respond differently to the same exposure due to genetic, age-related, or health factors. Exposure Assessment: Evaluating the extent, frequency, and duration of exposure is crucial in determining risk. Risk Assessment: This involves identifying hazards, assessing exposure, and characterizing risk to establish safety standards.