The global API market is significantly dominated by a few key players. China stands out as the leading producer of APIs, contributing to around 40% of the world's total API supply. The country's robust chemical manufacturing infrastructure, combined with lower production costs, allows for economies of scale. Chinese manufacturers have heavily invested in production facilities, regulatory compliance, and quality control measures to meet international standards. This dominance is further aided by government policies promoting the pharmaceutical sector and encouraging exports.
Another critical aspect covered in the handbook is the potential health risks associated with certain additives. Some plasticizers, for example, have been scrutinized for their endocrine-disrupting properties, leading to calls for alternative, safer substances. The handbook offers insights into emerging trends in the development of bio-based and non-toxic additives which aim to mitigate these concerns while maintaining material performance.
The pharmacokinetics of sevoflurane make it an ideal choice for procedures requiring short to moderate durations. Additionally, sevoflurane is metabolized minimally by the liver, resulting in a lower production of potentially toxic metabolites compared to other anesthetic agents. This profile contributes to sevoflurane’s safety, as it poses a lower risk of prolonged recovery or severe side effects.