PERSONALISED DRUG DELIVERY AND TESTING BY 3D PRINTING

Abstract

Individualization emerges as a major challenge in clinical practices. However, current manufacturing of personalised drug dosage forms and testing devices is not efficient. Utilising a low-cost 3D printer (Fused Deposition Modelling), a customisable, zero-order release kinetic oral tablet scaffold was developed. However, peptide drugs that hold huge potential, may not be suitable for oral administration. Subsequently, a high-resolution 3D printer (Digital Light Processing) was employed to fabricate personalised microneedle patch for the transdermal delivery of peptide. Microneedle geometry and 3D printable, photocurable materials were optimised. Beyond a drug delivery device, a dual function microneedle splint was also developed to deliver NSAIDs and to immobilise the affected finger joint for patients with trigger finger. Finally, a proof of concept for a personalised human respiratory tract model assembly was developed for inhalation drug testing. Overall, this thesis demonstrated the suitability of 3D printing for fabrication of personalised drug delivery and testing systems.