Which term means rendering a compound inert or inactive?

• A. Deactivate
• B. Decontaminate
• C. Clean
• D. Disinfect

Answer: (A)

Deactivation is the process of rendering a chemical inert or inactive. In hazardous drug management, this means chemically or physically altering the drug so it no longer has pharmacologic activity or toxicity, making it nonhazardous for handling or disposal. This is distinct from decontamination, which focuses on removing contaminants to prevent exposure; cleaning, which is about removing dirt or residues; and disinfection, which targets microorganisms to reduce biological hazards. For example, a deactivating step might neutralize an anticancer drug so it cannot cause harm if involved in exposure. Therefore, the term that best fits “rendering a compound inert or inactive” is deactivation.