Sculpting the Future: 3D Printing in Precision and Personalized Medicine

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is emerging as a transformative technology in pharmaceutical manufacturing, enabling the production of customized drug delivery systems with high precision. By constructing dosage forms layer by layer from digital designs, 3DP offers flexibility in formulation and personalization of therapy. This review explores key 3DP technologies—binder jetting, fused deposition modeling, semisolid extrusion, melt extrusion deposition, stereolithography, inkjet printing, direct light processing, and direct writing — and their applications in creating controlled-release tablets, polypills, Oro dispersible and paediatric-friendly formulations, as well as implantable devices and microneedle patches. Additionally, 3DP facilitates the development of patient-specific dispensing tools and organ-on-a-chip models for preclinical testing. As the field advances, the integration of artificial intelligence is expected to streamline formulation design and enhance drug product performance. Overall, 3D printing presents a promising pathway toward more patient-centric efficient and innovative pharmaceutical dispensing solutions.