Pharmaceutical compounds are chemical substances used in the development of medications. They can be natural or synthetic and are designed to prevent, diagnose, or treat diseases. These compounds interact with biological systems to produce specific therapeutic effects, making them essential in healthcare. The process of creating pharmaceutical compounds involves extensive research and testing to ensure safety and efficacy. Once developed, they undergo rigorous clinical trials before receiving approval from regulatory bodies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This ensures that the medications are effective and safe for public use.