The drug development process is a meticulously structured journey aimed at translating scientific discoveries into safe and effective medications for the benefit of patients. It is a multifaceted and highly regulated endeavor. This article provides a detailed description of the key stages involved in drug development, emphasizing the intricate balance between innovation and rigorous evaluation. The process commences with the identification and validation of therapeutic targets, often specific proteins or biological processes implicated in diseases. Scientists then embark on the discovery of compounds, which may include small molecules, biologics, or gene therapies, with the potential to interact with these targets.