3D Printing of Pharmaceuticals

Abstract

In the new era of medicine, 3D printing technique in pharmaceutical manufacturing has already yielded success. For example, Aprecia®, an FDA-approved pharmaceutical company, has launched its first approved product, which is unique not only because of a novel manufacturing process but is also better than conventional compressed tablets. 3D printing is an inexpensive additive manufacturing technique that builds a 3D object by successive layering on top of each other in a 2D fashion. The layering of the object in process is controlled digitally in a computer-aided design (CAD). 3D printing of pharmaceuticals suits best for personalised therapy, not only in case of doses but dosage form as well. A personalised dosage form can be designed and printed in such a way that the drugs are combined in a single pill (polypill). This can not only make the therapy and schedule convenient for patient but also increase adherence.