Prodrug
Definition
A pharmacologically inactive compound that is converted to an active drug inside the body through metabolic processes. Prodrugs are designed to improve absorption, reduce side effects, or target drug delivery to specific tissues.
Example
Codeine is a prodrug that is converted to morphine by the CYP2D6 enzyme in the liver. Patients who are poor CYP2D6 metabolizers may get little pain relief from codeine.