3D Printing in Pharmacy: Revolutionizing Personalized Dosage Forms

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) printing, also known as additive manufacturing, has emerged as a transformative technology in the pharmaceutical sciences. Unlike conventional drug manufacturing techniques, 3D printing offers precise control over drug dosage, geometry, and release profiles, thereby enabling the production of truly personalized medication. This paper explores the integration of 3D printing in pharmacy, focusing on various technologies like fused deposition modeling (FDM), inkjet printing, and stereolithography (SLA) and their pharmaceutical applications. We also discuss regulatory challenges, clinical benefits, and limitations associated with the use of 3D printing in personalized dosage forms. Key emphasis is placed on how this innovation is shaping pharmacotherapy, particularly in the areas of polypharmacy, pediatric medicine, and complex drug regimens. This paper reviews current literature, recent advancements, and future directions, concluding that 3D printing holds immense potential to shift the pharmaceutical manufacturing paradigm toward precision medicine.

DOI: 10.8612/37.2.2022.1