Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2025
Stereolithographic 3D Printing with Renewable Acrylates
Published on: September 12, 2018
Natural Alternatives to Non-biodegradable Polymers in 3D Printing of Pharmaceuticals
Ayush Somwanshi1, Pankaj Wadhwa1, Amir Raza1
1School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Grand Trunk Rd, Phagwara, Punjab 144001, India.
Background:
Due to potential toxicity, non-biodegradable polymers used in 3D (3-dimensional) printing of drugs could be dangerous for patient safety and the environment.
Objective:
This review aims to investigate the toxicity of non-biodegradable polymers and investigate the use of natural materials as an alternative in 3D printing medicines. The study evaluates the dangers connected to 3D printing.
Methods:
A review of the literature on various 3D printing processes, such as inkjet printing, fused filament manufacturing, and extrusion-related 3DP systems, was done for this study. Also, the use of cellulose derivatives and natural materials in 3D printing and their potential as active excipients was proposed.
Results:
The review identified potential toxicity risks linked to non-biodegradable polymers used in drug 3D printing. As a potential fix for this issue, the use of natural materials with improved mechanical and thermal properties was explored. The use of cellulose derivatives as an alternative to non-biodegradable polymers in 3D printing pharmaceuticals was also investigated in the study.
Conclusion:
This study emphasises the significance of evaluating the risks connected to drug 3D printing and recommends using natural materials as an alternative to non-biodegradable polymers. More study is required to create secure and reliable 3D printing processes for pharmaceuticals.
