biotransformation

n.
Chemical alteration of a substance within the body, as by the action of enzymes.

n

The chemical and physical changes produced in drugs after they enter the body (for example, hydrolysis, conjugation).

(bī'ō-trăns'fər-mā'shən)
n.

Chemical alteration of a substance, especially of a drug, within the body, as by the action of enzymes. Also called biodegradation.

The series of chemical alterations of a compound (e.g. a drug) occurring within the body, as by enzymatic activity. The metabolism of a drug may produce products that have different effects to those of the parent drug. This biotransformation may differ markedly between animal species and affect the dose rate to be used, or the usefulness of the drug.

• neonatal b. — is marked by a deficiency of some enzymes necessary for the biotransformation of drugs.