Which term refers to the process by which the body eliminates drugs?

The term that refers to the process by which the body eliminates drugs is excretion. This process involves the removal of the active substance and its metabolites from the body, primarily through the kidneys, but also through other routes such as bile, sweat, and exhalation. Excretion is a crucial step in pharmacokinetics, as it determines the duration and intensity of a drug's action in the body.

In contrast, absorption refers to the process by which a drug enters the bloodstream after administration. Distribution involves the dispersion of the drug throughout the body's fluids and tissues. Metabolism describes the chemical modifications made by the body to the drug, often transforming it into more water-soluble compounds to facilitate excretion. Each of these processes plays a distinct role in how a drug interacts with the body, but excretion specifically deals with the final removal of the drug from the system.