Understanding the Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) and its Importance
Every drug has two major components or aspects: active and inactive. Both these aspects impact the overall functionality of the medicine. The active or the central ingredient of the drug is called API or Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient whereas the inactive component is referred to as Excipient. In this blog, we will learn a little more about API and its history.
What is API ?
API or the Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient is one crucial element of every formulated drug and subsequently of the complete pharma industry. It is the element responsible for inducing the therapeutic effect of the drug. This chemical substance gives a medicine its medicinal value and is the core behind the drug’s biological activity.
History of API
Today, the API market is worth a billion dollars. But, where did it all start? The use of API dates back to the days of yore, when plants, herbs and minerals were used as medicines. However, the API, as we know them today, marked their presence in the 19th century, with the discovery of synthetic chemical compounds known as modern medicine.
Over the years, research and discoveries led to development of new APIs. Even today API has an active research field, where scientists are working to uncover different compounds that may treat a wide range of medical conditions. Product Manufacturers in India and across the globe are working tirelessly and dedicatedly to improve the health of millions across the world. In India, manufacturers like Cerata Pharmaceuticals are setting new benchmarks as manufacturers and marketers of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Manufacturers & supplier India across the sphere.
How are APIs produced?
There are various methods used in manufacturing APIs. Top product manufacturers in India use techniques like fermentation, biotechnology, chemical synthesis and isolation from natural resources to develop APIs.
The most prevalent method for producing an API is chemical synthesis where a chemical reaction between various materials is induced to reach the desired end. Next is fermentation. It involves using microorganisms like yeast or bacteria to produce the desired compound. Biotechnology uses organisms or living cells while isolation involves extracting the compound from a natural resource like a plant or an animal.
APIs are used not only in tablets, injections, capsules, creams, or ointments but also in veterinary medicine. They also find use in production of agricultural chemicals. Also, the quality of an API affects the safety, durability and efficacy of a drug. Hence, companies that manufacture API have strict guidelines and regulations and are subject to regular testing.
Wrapping Up:
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients are a vital component, responsible for the healing properties of any drug. They form an integral part of modern medicine. The research in this field is key to unlocking the secrets of new and effective treatments.
APIs are meticulously tested to meet the strict quality and safety standards before their release in the market. Their numerous benefits include safety, innovation, accessibility, cost-effectiveness and versatility. Companies like Cerata Pharmaceuticals are setting a benchmark for product manufacturers in India with their quality products.