Which outcome is NOT associated with drug metabolism?

In the context of drug metabolism, the primary outcomes typically include processes that alter the drug's activity and facilitate its elimination from the body. Metabolism often involves converting active drugs into inactive metabolites, which is crucial for reducing their pharmacological effect – hence, inactivation of the drug is a key outcome. Additionally, metabolism can enhance the kidney's ability to excrete drugs by transforming them into more water-soluble forms.

When considering improving drug absorption, this is not an expected outcome of drug metabolism. Drug metabolism generally occurs after absorption has already taken place, acting on the drug once it is systemic. Enhancing drug absorption would involve mechanisms such as formulation changes or delivery methods that increase the amount of drug that enters the bloodstream, rather than alterations that occur after the drug is already absorbed.

Therefore, the assertion that drug metabolism improves drug absorption does not align with its defined role, which is more focused on inactivation, facilitation of excretion, and occasionally enhancing therapeutic effects through metabolic pathways, but not absorption itself.