3 D PRINTING TECHNOLOGY IN PHARMACEUTICALS: A REVIEW

The 3D PRINTING technology has caught the attention of medical devices industry and pharmaceutical industry due to its applications on various platform in health care industry. Even though this technology exists for a long time it is of public interest highly now due to the approval of 3-D printed tablet and other medical devices and also with the advent of USFDA’s guidance on technical considerations specific to devices using additive manufacturing which encompasses 3-dimensional (3D) printing has triggered many thoughts about this technology which needs to be considered for successful delivery of intended product. The introduction of 3D printing technology in the pharmaceutical industry has opened new horizons in the research and development of printed materials and devices. The main benefits of 3D printing technology lie in the production of small batches of medicines, each with tailored dosages, shapes, sizes, and release characteristics. The manufacture of medicines in this way may finally lead to the concept of personalized medicines becoming a reality. This chapter provides an overview of how 3D printed technology has extended from initial unit operations to developed final products.