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Customized 3D printed multi-drug systems: an effective and efficient approach to polypharmacy
Kundai R Mazarura1, Pradeep Kumar1, Yahya E Choonara1
1Wits Advanced Drug Delivery Platform Research Unit, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, School of Therapeutic Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Expert Opinion on Drug Delivery
|September 5, 2022
Summary
3D printing offers a versatile solution to overcome the challenges of mass-produced polypills, enabling customized medicines for improved patient adherence and outcomes. This technology is poised to revolutionize pharmaceutical manufacturing and drug delivery.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Technology
- Drug Delivery Systems
- Personalized Medicine
Background:
- Polypharmacy and polypills have improved patient outcomes but face manufacturing challenges.
- Current fixed-dose combination pills do not cater to individual patient needs.
- 3D printing presents a novel approach to overcome these limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current state of 3D-printed multi-active pharmaceutical forms.
- To explore techniques, materials, and cost implications of 3D printing in pharmaceuticals.
- To discuss the potential limitations and challenges of this technology.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on 3D printing of multi-active pharmaceutical forms.
- Analysis of applied printing techniques and materials.
- Elaboration on cost, limitations, and challenges.
Main Results:
- 3D printing enables the creation of customized, multi-active pharmaceutical forms.
- The technology offers a shift from one-size-fits-all to personalized medicines.
- Potential for improved adherence and patient outcomes.
Conclusions:
- 3D printing of multi-active systems is beneficial and essential for the future of pharmaceuticals.
- Addressing challenges and presenting clinical data will accelerate implementation.
- Emerging technologies like 4D printing suggest continued innovation in drug delivery.
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