SOLID DOSAGE FORM PRODUCTION

Smart overview of the Invention

The production of solid dosage forms, such as tablets, is revolutionized through the use of fused filament fabrication (FFF) 3D printing technology. This innovative approach employs specialized printing filaments that contain active pharmaceutical ingredients, allowing for robust and customizable formulations. The method enables the on-demand creation of personalized medicines tailored to individual patient needs, a significant advancement in the pharmaceutical field.

Key Components of the Printing Apparatus

The solid dosage form printing apparatus consists of several essential components:

• A FFF 3D printer.
• A build platform for constructing the solid dosage forms.
• An active ingredient-containing printing filament, which may include a precursor that transforms into the active ingredient during printing.
• Optional additional printing filaments for enhanced formulation flexibility.
• A computer system for controlling the printer and managing the printing process.

Advantages Over Traditional Manufacturing

Traditional methods of producing solid dosage forms often involve complex processes and large-scale production, which can limit consumer choice and customization. The 3D printing method addresses these challenges by:

• Enabling high doses of active ingredients with minimal complexity.
• Allowing for customizable drug release profiles and aesthetic features.
• Improving stability and shelf-life of both input materials and final products.
• Facilitating regulatory compliance through simplified operations.

Method of Printing Solid Dosage Forms

The method involves several steps to produce solid dosage forms using the described apparatus. Initially, the printer is set up with the appropriate filaments. The active ingredient-containing filament is printed onto the build platform, followed by any additional filaments as needed. Post-printing modifications can also be performed to enhance the properties of the final product.

Implications for Healthcare

This technology has significant implications for healthcare by providing a more efficient means of producing customized medications. It allows pharmacies to print medications on-site, reducing wait times and improving patient adherence to treatment regimens. Furthermore, it opens avenues for research and development in pharmaceutical formulations, enabling rapid prototyping and testing of new drugs.