tapering
n. in pharmacology, a gradual reduction in the dose of a drug in order to avoid undesirable effects that may occur with rapid cessation. Such effects may be extreme (e.g., convulsions) or relatively mild (e.g., head pain, gastrointestinal discomfort). Drugs that produce physiological dependence (e.g., opiates, benzodiazepines) must be tapered to prevent a withdrawal syndrome and possible seizures (see sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic withdrawal). Also called gradual withdrawal.