A Review on Advanced Drug Delivery Systems Using 3D-Printed Biodegradable Polymers

Review Article

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology combined with biodegradable polymers enables the development of patient-specific drug formulations with improved therapeutic outcomes. Biodegradable polymers like polylactic acid (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) serve as primary materials in pharmaceutical 3D printing due to their tunable degradation profiles and biocompatibility. Recent trends include the incorporation of nanoparticles within polymer matrices, development of hybrid biomaterial composites, and integration of artificial intelligence for optimizing printing parameters. The emergence of smart polymers and 4D printing has enabled the creation of stimuli-responsive drug delivery systems that can adapt to physiological conditions. The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technology with 3D-printed devices facilitates real-time monitoring and remote drug customization. However, several challenges are yet to be overcome, including regulatory compliance, scalability limitations, and the need for precise control over polymer degradation kinetics. Ongoing research focuses on developing environmentally sustainable polymers, improving printability, and optimizing material properties for enhanced therapeutic efficacy. The potential for localized drug manufacturing at pharmacies and the creation of patient-specific implants highlights the transformative impact of this technology on healthcare delivery. The current limitations can be overcome with continued research and interdisciplinary collaboration which will accelerate the clinical implementation of 3D-printed biodegradable polymers in personalized medicine.