What is it called when a medication reaches its site of action and becomes less active or inactive?

When a medication reaches its site of action and becomes less active or inactive, this process is referred to as metabolism. Metabolism primarily occurs in the liver and involves the biochemical alteration of drugs into their metabolized forms, which can often be less potent or inactive compared to their original form. This process is crucial for drug clearance from the body, as it transforms fat-soluble substances into water-soluble forms that can be easily excreted.

In contrast, excretion refers to the elimination of the active drug or its metabolites from the body, often through urine or bile. Distribution involves the dispersion of the drug throughout the body’s tissues and fluids after it has been absorbed. Absorption is the process by which a drug enters the bloodstream from the site of administration. Understanding metabolism is essential in nursing practice, as it directly affects a patient's response to medication and dosage calculations.