What term refers to the chemical makeup of a drug, which is written in lowercase?

The term that refers to the chemical makeup of a drug and is typically written in lowercase is known as the generic name. The generic name represents the active ingredient in the medication, distinctly identifying a drug without reference to its brand name. It is assigned when a drug is developed and is meant to be universally recognized, facilitating clear communication about the medication across different manufacturers and healthcare providers.

In contrast, the brand (trade) name is capitalized and is the proprietary name given by a specific company to market its product. The drug name can refer to either the brand name or the generic name, but it does not specifically denote the chemical makeup as consistently as the generic name does. Therefore, the correct choice reflects a standardized, lowercase format that identifies the drug's active ingredient, making it clear to healthcare professionals and patients alike.