Applications of 3D printing for the advancement of oral dosage forms

Three-dimensional (3D) printing was first described by Charles Hull in 1986. Three-dimensional printing is a unique technology for manufacturing 3D solid objects by deposition of many thin layers using computer-aided drafting technology and programming. Three-dimensional printing comprises a range of different technologies, such as fused deposition modeling, pressure-assisted microsyringes, stereolithography, and selective laser sintering. Compared with the traditional process of dosage form manufacturing, 3D printing can create robust, facile, and more complex products using a single manufacturing method. Moreover, 3D printing allows customized medications for individual patients with specialized medical needs. Based on the advantages offered by 3D printing, it became one of the latest interests for pharmaceutical and biomedical research which reflects in the increasing number of patents and scientific reports. Recently, in 2015, the USFDA has approved the first 3D-printed orally disintegrating tablet Spritam (levetiracetam) for the treatment of seizures in patients with epilepsy. Existing complex solid oral dosage form manufacturing technology combined with 3D printing has been studied for product development with several advantages. This chapter will provide an overview of 3D printing technology with detailed discussion on 3D printing methods applied to drug product manufacturing and will discuss the recent advances in 3D printing technology that affect drug product development.