Engineering

Biomedical engineering

Materials science

Chromatography

3D printing

Computer science

Excipient

Food science

Drug

Internet privacy

Biopharmaceutics Classification System

Dissolution testing

3d printed

Process engineering

Pharmacology

Organoleptic

Composite material

Medicine

Chemistry

Pharmaceutical technology

Dosage form

International Journal of Pharmaceutics

Obtention of customized dosage forms is one of the main attractions of 3D printing in pharmaceuticals. In this sense, children are one of the groups within the population with a greater need for drug doses adapted to their requirements (age, weight, pathological state…), but most 3D printed oral dosages are solid forms and, therefore, not suitable for them. This work developed patient-tailored medicinal gummies, an alternative oral dosage form with eye-catching appearance and appropriate organoleptic characteristics. Four inks were formulated, characterised and 3D printed by means of syringe-based extrusion mechanism. Different tests were performed to ensure reproducibility of the process and validate work methodology for dosage unit fabrication applying basic manufacturing standards. Rheological test helped in evaluating inks printability. Visual characterization concluded that drugmies, apart from a high fidelity in the 3D model shape reproduction, had a bright and uniformly coloured appearance and a pleasant aroma, which made them highly appetising and attractive. The printed gummy oral dosages complied comfortably with the mass uniformity assay regardless of the formulated ink used or the 3D model selected for printing. Ranitidine hydrochloride individual contents were determined using uv–vis spectrophotometry, showing successful results both in dose accuracy, uniformity of drug content and dissolution.

3D printed gummies: Personalized drug dosage in a safe and appealing way