APIs can be derived from various sources, including natural substances, synthetic processes, and biotechnological methods. For example, aspirin, a widely used drug for pain relief and anti-inflammatory purposes, is a synthetic API that mimics compounds found in the bark of willow trees. Conversely, some APIs, such as penicillin, are derived from naturally occurring organisms like fungi.
6. Regulatory Status Information regarding approval by health authorities, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the European Medicines Agency (EMA), is included to indicate the API's legitimacy and market availability.