A recent article in the Pharmacy Times (link to article) highlighted the FDA approval of Spritam (levetiracetam), the first 3D-printed drug. As discussed in the article, the 3D printing technology bonds thin layers of the powdered medication via an aqueous fluid. This technology allows the pill to rapidly dissolve with just a small sip of liquid, which is highly beneficial for epileptic patients who may have difficulties swallowing. The most common side effects in adults were sleepiness, weakness, dizziness, and infection. Children who used Spritam experienced aggressive behavior, irritability, fatigue, congestion, and loss of appetite.
This article begs the question: is 3D printing technology going to become the future of medicine? Will we ever reach a day where it becomes standard for patients to have 3D printing technology and can "print" their medications from home? It will be interesting to see where the future of pharmaceutical 3D printing takes us.
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