Practical Applications
## Molecules That Heal
Organic chemistry is the backbone of modern medicine. Most drugs are organic molecules, carefully designed for specific effects in the body.
### How It Works
- Understanding molecular structure helps chemists design drugs that fit targets in our bodies.
- Reactions are used to synthesize new medicines from simple starting materials.
### Impact
Thanks to organic chemistry, we have antibiotics, painkillers, cancer treatments, and more.
Examples
- Aspirin is made from salicylic acid, an organic molecule found in plants.
- Penicillin, a lifesaving antibiotic, is produced through organic synthesis.