3D printed medicine for the management of chronic diseases: The road less travelled

The management of every disease is cumbersome and considered a significant burden, but the treatment of chronic diseases is more arduous than any other disease process. These diseases often demands a long-term pharmacotherapy, drug and treatment monitoring and regular follow-ups. However, the treatment regimen may be hindered as both patient-compliance and medication adherence are imperative factors for optimum therapeutic effect, and any aberrations associated with the latter may beget a change in the dosing, leading to dose-related adverse effects. However, the utilization of 3D printed personalized medicines may be a panacea for these problems, significantly reducing the need for dosing errors, treatment monitoring and regular follow-ups with healthcare providers. This article aims to extrapolate the utility of various additive manufacturing and 3D printed medicines for the management of chronic diseases, recent advancements and observations in the latter, and the impediments that need to be addressed before launching these medicines in the commercial markets.