3D Printing technologies for drug delivery: a review

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Technology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first 3D printed tablet, Spritam®, establishing a precedent for additive manufacturing in pharmaceuticals.
• 3D printing offers unparalleled capabilities in dispensing accuracy, spatial control, and layer-by-layer fabrication for complex drug delivery systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review 3D printing technologies used in fabricating drug delivery systems.
• To discuss formulation and processing parameters critical for 3D printed dosage forms.
• To summarize dosage forms developed using 3D printing over the past decade.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature focusing on 3D printing in drug delivery.
• Analysis of formulation and processing considerations for additive manufacturing of pharmaceuticals.
• Compilation of diverse dosage forms fabricated via 3D printing.

Main Results:

• 3D printing enables the creation of intricate dosage forms with multiple active pharmaceutical ingredients.
• The technology allows for the development of complex and tailored drug release profiles.
• Personalized dosing for individual patient needs is a significant opportunity offered by 3D printing.

Conclusions:

• 3D printing represents a transformative technology for pharmaceutical manufacturing and drug delivery.
• The flexibility and control offered by 3D printing facilitate innovation in dosage form design.
• Continued advancements in 3D printing hold promise for personalized medicine and improved patient outcomes.