There are several reasons why the efficacy of a substance might decline:
Biological Adaptation: Organisms may undergo genetic or physiological changes that reduce the impact of the substance. For example, bacteria can develop resistance to antibiotics, making these drugs less effective over time. Environmental Factors: Changes in environmental conditions like temperature, pH, or presence of other chemicals can affect how a substance interacts with biological systems, thereby reducing its efficacy. Metabolic Changes: Organisms might metabolize substances differently over time. Liver enzymes, for instance, can become more efficient at breaking down drugs, leading to reduced drug efficacy.