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Drug Degradation

Meaning

Drug Degradation is the irreversible chemical process by which a pharmaceutical compound, such as a hormone or peptide, breaks down into simpler, chemically distinct entities called degradation products. This process fundamentally compromises the medication’s intended therapeutic concentration and purity, directly reducing its potency and potentially creating harmful byproducts. Maintaining the stability of hormonal preparations is a critical pharmaceutical requirement to ensure that the patient receives the prescribed and expected dose. The extent of degradation is a primary determinant of a drug’s shelf life and storage requirements.