covapharm.com Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) are the active components in a pharmaceutical drug that produce the required effect on the body to treat a condition. APIs are produced by processing chemical compounds. In a biologic drug, the active ingredient is known as a bulk process intermediate (BPI).Despite high manufacturing expenses, strict regulatory policies, and policies in controlling drug prices in many countries, attractive opportunities have emerged in the API market due to growing cases of chronic diseases, including diabetes, asthma and cancer. Types of active pharmaceutical ingredientsAPIs are broadly categorised into two types – synthetic and natural. Synthetic APIs are further classified into innovative and generic synthetic APIs, based on the type of synthesis used.Synthetic chemical APIs, also known as small molecules, constitute a large part of the pharmaceutical market, with many small molecule drugs commercially available in the market. Natural APIs are used in making biologics, which are increasingly becoming the top-selling drugs in the market. Despite the growing demand, biologics are currently significantly fewer in number compared to small molecule drugs. Based on the solubility, APIs are categorised into insoluble and soluble drugs.Top active pharmaceutical ingredients and intermediates suppliers Pharmaceutical Technology has listed the leading suppliers of active pharmaceutical ingredients and intermediates based on its intel, insights and decades-long experience in the sector. The list includes companies that can develop and supply high-quality pharmaceutical materials, including, but not limited to: high-docosahexaenoic acid oil for API productionAPIs for central nervous system therapiesNatural cannabinoid (CBD) ingredients, CBD isolates and cannabis distillates Excipients Insulin for cell culture mediaAmmonium compounds Mineral saltsThere are many types of Pharmaceutical Intermediates existing in the market for different functions like Antiviral Drug, Anti-diabetic, Antidepressants, Cardiovascular Medications, Sexually Enhanced Medicines, Complementary Medicines and Other Intermediates.