What is the term for the process by which a drug is removed from the body?

The term that describes the process by which a drug is removed from the body is drug elimination. This process encompasses both metabolism and excretion.

Metabolism refers to the biochemical alteration of a drug, primarily through liver enzymes, transforming it into more water-soluble compounds that are easier for the body to eliminate. Conversely, excretion specifically pertains to the physical removal of these metabolites or unchanged drugs from the body, commonly through urine or feces.

In conclusion, while metabolism contributes to the overall removal process, it is the broader term "drug elimination" that captures both aspects of how a drug is ultimately cleared from the body. This is why drug elimination is the correct choice, reflecting the complete mechanism involved in the clearance of pharmacological substances.