3D printing hybrid materials using fused deposition modelling for solid oral dosage forms

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Science
• Materials Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• 3D printing is rapidly advancing in healthcare for custom orthotics, implants, and drug dosage forms.
• This technology allows precise control over drug dosage, release kinetics, and aesthetic features.
• Hybrid materials are emerging to enhance the quality and functionality of 3D printed pharmaceutical formulations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the importance of hybrid formulations (polymers, drugs, excipients) for reliable 3D printed dosage forms.
• To focus on fused deposition modeling (FDM) as a key 3D printing technology for these hybrids.
• To provide an overview of emerging trends in pharmaceutical 3D printing formulation compositions.

Main Methods:

• Collation of data on hybrid material development for 3D printed dosage forms.
• Emphasis on fused deposition modeling (FDM) techniques and polymer-based hybrids.
• Analysis of different hybrid categories, fabrication methods, and their impact on dosage form properties.

Main Results:

• 3D printing enables customized polypills with variable strengths and combinations.
• FDM compatibility with polymer-based hybrids facilitates enhanced drug delivery and protection of sensitive drugs.
• Hybrid formulations significantly influence the properties of 3D printed solid oral dosage forms.

Conclusions:

• Hybrid formulations are essential for high-quality, reliable 3D printed pharmaceutical dosage forms.
• FDM technology offers significant potential for advanced drug delivery systems using these hybrids.
• Continued research into novel hybrid materials will drive innovation in pharmaceutical 3D printing.