detoxication The metabolism of (potentially) toxic compounds to yield less toxic derivatives which are more soluble in water and can be excreted in the urine or bile. A wide variety of ‘foreign compounds’ (i.e. compounds that are not normal metabolites in the body), sometimes referred to as xenobiotics, and some hormones and other normal body metabolites, are metabolized in the same way. See also phase I metabolism; phase II metabolism.

detoxication (detoxification) (dee-toksi-kay-shŏn) n.
1. the process by which toxic substances are removed or toxic effects neutralized. It is one of the functions of the liver.

2. the ‘drying-out’ of a patient suffering from alcoholism.