Which of the following terms refers specifically to the effects of a medication that can affect the entire body?

The term that specifically refers to the effects of a medication that can affect the entire body is "systematic side effects." This terminology is used in pharmacology to indicate that the medication's effects are not limited to the area where it is applied or introduced into the body but rather have a broader impact, influencing various systems or functions throughout the entire organism.

When a medication is said to have systemic side effects, it means that its absorption into the bloodstream allows it to reach multiple organs or tissues, potentially leading to a variety of reactions that can be felt throughout the body. This is in contrast to localized side effects, which are restricted to a specific site or area. Understanding this distinction is vital for healthcare providers to monitor and manage potential adverse effects effectively.

Other terms like "specific reactions" or "chronic side effects" do not accurately capture the expansive influence of medications on the entire body. Specific reactions might refer to targeted effects or responses to medications, while chronic side effects generally relate to long-term consequences rather than the immediate wide-reaching effects implied by "systematic."