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• Synthetic source – when the nucleus of the drug from natural source as well as its chemical structure is altered. We call it synthetic E.g Emetrine Bismuth lodide

• Semi-synthetic source: When the nucleus of drug obtained from natural source is retained but the chemical structure is altered, we call it semi-synthetic e.g Ampicillin, and methyl testosterone.

• Microbiological sources:

• Penicillium notatum is a fungus which gives penicillin

• Actinobacteria give streptomycin

• Aminoglycosides such as gentamicin and tobramycin are obtained from straptomycis and micromonosporas.

• Recombination DNA technology: 

• Recombinant DNA technology involves cleavage of DNA by enzyme restriction endonucleases

• The desired gene is coupled to rapidly replicating DNA (viral, bacterial) 

• The new genetic combination is inserted into the bacteria cultures which allow production of vast amount of genetic material.

Advantages

• Huge amounts of drugs can be produced

• Drug can be obtained in pure form

Disadvantages

• Well equipped lab is required

• Highly trained staff is required

• It is complex and complicated techniques