A Comprehensive Review of 3D Printing Applications in Drug Development and Delivery

Review Article

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) printing has emerged as a transformative technology in the pharmaceutical industry, offering unprecedented opportunities for personalized medicine and advanced drug delivery systems. This review explores the diverse applications of 3D printing in drug development and delivery, highlighting its potential to revolutionize pharmaceutical manufacturing. The primary 3D printing technologies employed in this field include fused deposition modeling (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), and powder bed fusion (PBF), each with unique strengths suited for different aspects of drug production. 3D-printed pharmaceuticals offer numerous advantages, including customized dosing, complex geometries for controlled release, and improved patient compliance. The technology enables the creation of personalized dosage forms, polypills, and novel drug delivery systems such as microneedle patches and implants. Additionally, 3D bioprinting shows promise in developing organ-on-a-chip models for drug testing, potentially reducing the need for animal studies. Despite its potential, the widespread adoption of 3D printing in pharmaceuticals faces challenges, including regulatory hurdles, material limitations, and scalability issues. As the technology continues to evolve, it is poised to significantly impact the pharmaceutical industry, advancing personalized medicine and improving patient outcomes. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state, challenges, and future prospects of 3D printing in pharmaceutical applications