What is the term for the process by which the body breaks down drugs?

The correct term for the process by which the body breaks down drugs is metabolism. Metabolism encompasses all the biochemical changes that a drug undergoes after it is administered. This process is essential because it converts the active form of the drug into more polar, water-soluble compounds that can be easily eliminated from the body. Metabolism primarily occurs in the liver but can also take place in other tissues, such as the kidneys, lungs, and intestines.

Understanding metabolism is crucial in pharmacology as it helps in determining the duration of a drug's action, its efficacy, and how long it remains in the bloodstream. Factors influencing metabolism include age, genetics, liver function, and the presence of other substances in the body that can affect metabolic pathways.

The other options relate to different aspects of pharmacokinetics. Absorption refers to how the drug enters the bloodstream from the site of administration. Distribution involves the movement of the drug throughout the body, reaching various tissues and organs. Elimination is the process of removing the drug or its metabolites from the body, primarily through urine or feces. Each of these processes plays a vital role in the overall pharmacokinetic profile of a drug, but metabolism specifically focuses on the biochemical breakdown of the compound itself.