What role do enzymes play in drug metabolism?

Enzymes play a critical role in drug metabolism by facilitating the chemical alteration of drugs, which generally transforms these substances into pharmacologically inactive forms that can be more easily eliminated from the body. This process, known as biotransformation, often involves reactions such as oxidation, reduction, hydrolysis, or conjugation. By modifying the chemical structure of drugs, enzymes help to increase their solubility in water, which is a key factor in renal excretion and ensures that drugs do not accumulate to toxic levels within the body.

The action of enzymes in drug metabolism is essential in pharmacotherapy, as it impacts drug efficacy and safety. Metabolic processes can also affect the duration of drug action and influence the potential for drug interactions. Thus, understanding the role of enzymes in drug metabolism is crucial for predicting how different medications behave in the body and for individualizing therapy for optimal outcomes.