Since its inception in the 1980s, 3D printing has transformed various research fields, and notably, it has made significant strides in revolutionizing drug delivery systems within the pharmaceutical industry. The primary objective is to produce intricate and personalized pharmaceutical products through a cost-effective, on-demand manufacturing process. Over the past two decades, there has been a surge of interest in 3D printing for drug delivery systems, with a notable increase in publications since the approval of the first 3D-printed drug product in 2015.
The versatility of 3D printing technology allows for the creation of diverse drug delivery systems, including tablets, capsules, orodispersible films, implants, transdermal delivery systems, microneedles, vaginal drug delivery systems, and micro- and nanoscale dosage forms. Notably, 3D printing has demonstrated its efficacy in achieving controlled and modified release of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), enhancing drug stability, and reducing the required API amount without compromising efficacy. This technology has opened avenues for the creation of unique dosage forms with more complex drug release profiles, allowing for the customization of medication to meet specific patient needs.
Three-dimensional printing, based on digital design and a layer-by-layer manufacturing process, facilitates a rapid and cost-effective cycle for personalized medication. This breakthrough technology disrupts the traditional ‘one size fits all’ manufacturing regime, offering a means to tailor drug delivery systems based on individual patient characteristics such as age, weight, organ function, and disease severity. The ability to create flexible and innovative products quickly has paved the way for the development of tailored single and multi-drug products at the point of care.
Various 3D printing technologies, such as fused deposition modeling (FDM), selective laser sintering (SLS), stereolithographic (SLA), and inkjet printing, have been applied to manufacture different drug dosage forms. Researchers and companies have actively contributed to the field, with innovative start-ups like FabRx Ltd. dedicated to producing 3D-printed medication.
One of the remarkable milestones in 3D-printed pharmaceuticals was the approval of Spritam® in 2015 by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This 3D-printed tablet, utilizing ZipDose Technology, marked a significant achievement in the field, particularly for the treatment of epileptic seizures.
Precision medicine and targeted drug delivery are key benefits of 3D drug printing. The technology allows for the creation of tailored drug formulations, enabling personalized medication based on individual patient requirements. This capability extends to dosage, release profiles, and even the combination of multiple drugs within a single dosage form.
3D printing is not merely a technological marvel; it is a gateway to the future of medicine. The ability to customize medication based on patient-specific factors has immense implications for precision medicine and targeted therapy. With continuous advancements and innovations, 3D printing is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of pharmaceutical manufacturing and personalized
