What is the process by which drug molecules are converted into simpler products called?

The process by which drug molecules are converted into simpler products is known as metabolism. This term specifically refers to the biochemical transformation of substances within the body, shifting complex molecules like drugs into simpler forms that can be more easily utilized or eliminated by the body. Metabolism typically involves enzymatic reactions in the liver but can occur in various tissues throughout the body.

The significance of metabolism lies in its role in determining the duration and intensity of a drug's effect. It can affect the drug's efficacy, active form, and ultimately, how the body responds to medication. For instance, metabolic processes can deactivate a drug or transform it into a more active form that may enhance its therapeutic effects.

Absorption, excretion, and distribution are related processes but do not refer to the chemical transformation of drug molecules. Absorption is the process through which drugs enter the bloodstream from their site of administration. Distribution covers how the drug travels through the body and reaches different tissues and organs. Excretion refers to the elimination of drugs and their metabolites from the body, primarily through the kidneys or liver. Each of these processes plays a critical role in pharmacokinetics, but metabolism specifically focuses on the transformation of drug molecules into simpler products.