prodrug
noun
pro·drug
ˈprō-ˌdrəg
plural prodrugs
: a pharmacologically inactive substance that is converted in the body (as by enzymatic action) into a pharmacologically active drug
… an enzyme that transforms an inactive drug molecule, or prodrug, into an active anticancer agent.—Scientific American Cancer Smart
One source of the variability is the metabolism of clopidogrel, which is a prodrug requiring biotransformation to generate its active metabolite.—Jessica L. Mega
… an orally administered prodrug of ganciclovir that provides improved bioavailability.—Bernard A. Schwetz
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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