A Review of 3D printing methods for pharmaceutical manufacturing: Technologies and applications

The foundation of three-dimensional printing is the additive manufacturing principle. This type of technology could completely revolutionize manufacturing if it is capable of reducing time to manufacture from months or years down to hours. The pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors are just two of many that stand to benefit greatly from the revolutionary technology known as 3D printing, or additive manufacturing. Focusing on its capacity to improve patient-specific therapies, optimize drug release patterns, and produce customized medication formulations, this article investigates the possibilities of 3D printing in pharmaceutical production. Moreover, the article provides details on various methods of 3D printing including Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM), Inkjet Printing and Hot Melt Extrusion (HME) and the advantages, limitations, and application of these methods in the pharmaceutical industry. It also covers the application of 3D printing in the localization of the operative site, counseling and individualized manufacture of implants. Some of the technical, legal, and even financial barriers still remain to prevent the usage of 3D printing for the creation of pharmaceuticals despite the encouraging potential out there. This paper offers a comprehensive review of 3D printing's present state, difficulties, and potential future uses in the pharmaceutical industry, shedding light on how this technology has the potential to transform the pharmaceutical industry and personalized treatment.