APIs are responsible for the pharmacological activity of a drug. When patients take medication, they are essentially consuming a mixture that includes APIs, as well as excipients, which are inactive substances that serve as carriers for the active ingredient. It is the API that directly affects how the body functions and combats diseases. For example, in a common pain reliever like ibuprofen, ibuprofen itself acts as the API that alleviates pain and reduces inflammation.
The manufacturing of APIs involves several complex steps that are governed by strict regulations to ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). The process typically encompasses the synthesis of chemical compounds, formulation, and purification.