What is a common characteristic of drugs that are prodrugs like irinotecan?

Prodrugs, such as irinotecan, are primarily characterized by their need for metabolic activation by enzymes in the body to convert them into their active forms before they can exert therapeutic effects. In the case of irinotecan, it is administered as a prodrug that is then converted in the liver by hepatic enzymes into its active metabolite, SN-38, which is responsible for its anticancer activity. This activation process is crucial because it allows for a more controlled release of the active form, thereby optimizing its effectiveness while potentially reducing toxicity.

Other options do not accurately describe prodrugs. For instance, prodrugs do require metabolism for activity, which is the opposite of stating that they do not require metabolism. Furthermore, prodrugs do not directly cause DNA damage in their original form; rather, the active form, once generated from metabolism, may interact with DNA to induce damage. Lastly, prodrugs are specifically designed to be administered in an inactive form, requiring conversion to become pharmacologically active. Thus, the correct option emphasizes the importance of hepatic enzyme activation in the therapeutic utility of prodrugs.