3D printing in the pharmaceutical sector: Advances and evidences

Since its inception in the early 1980s, 3D Printing (3DP) technology has made a significant impact in a multitude of sectors, and pharmaceutical manufacturing is no exception. With the changing horizons, both people and researchers are gaining interest in the fabrication of tailored or personalized dosage forms. These dosage forms address the issues pertaining to on-demand manufacturing, feasibility, enhanced size, dosage and geometry, increased bioavailability with desired drug release profiles, and minimal toxicity or adverse drug reaction issues. The advent of 3DP in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sector is believed to potentially disrupt the dosage, supply chain, and waste management of conventional drugs. However, it may help to address specific issues for various subgroups, including pediatric, geriatric, multimorbid, visually impaired patients, and those with chronic diseases Although several articles underscore the various utilities of 3DP techniques, this article aims to review the various research areas along with the shortcomings associated with the printing technique.