A bulk drug, also known as an Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API), is the key component in a medicine that produces the desired therapeutic effect. It is the main ingredient responsible for the drug's pharmacological activity.
Understanding Bulk Drugs (APIs)
- Definition: APIs are the fundamental substances within a drug that deliver therapeutic benefits or intended pharmacological activity.
- Role: They are the active ingredients that directly impact the body to treat or prevent diseases.
- Importance: Without the bulk drug, the medicine would not have the intended medicinal effect.
Example
Imagine a paracetamol tablet; paracetamol is the bulk drug or API. It's the ingredient that actually relieves your headache or reduces your fever. The other ingredients in the tablet (like binders and fillers) are inactive and simply help deliver the paracetamol to your body.
