The NIH has awarded a grant of $3 million in the hope of supporting the 3D printing of medication tailored towards helping paediatric patients
Researchers at Texas A&M University are leading the innovative research project to revolutionise medication tailored towards under 21s, along with the College of Engineering, the College of Pharmacy and the School of Vestiary Medicine and Biomedical Science.
There is a growing need for more personalised medication sizes and doses, especially for younger people. What is being done?
Paediatric and geriatric patients need greater flexibility in administering medications
Traditional ways of mass-producing medical tablets allow for the production of tablets with scandalized dosage and sizes. To ensure everyone is receiving the appropriate amount of medication, there needs to be greater flexibility within the medical industry
The NIH-funded project is to work towards tailored manufacturing methods, such as the 3D printing of medication that can be adapted to the needs of pediatric patients.
The research will test a range of medications for infants up to 17-year-olds. Each patient will have their medication dosages and tablet sizes tailed accordingly to them.
It’s time to “unravel the unique aspects specific to pharmaceuticals”
Dr Mathew A. Kuttolamadom, co-principal investigator and Associate Professor explained, “Our primary challenge lies in comprehending this novel process and unravelling the unique aspects specific to pharmaceuticals. Overcoming these challenges is essential as we strive to advance the field and ensure the drug’s efficacy remains intact throughout/beyond the manufacturing process.”
The team will also work towards keeping the drug’s effectiveness and integrity
The team will also work towards keeping the drug’s effectiveness and integrity. The 3D printing of medication is not a fantasy anymore; by modifying the printing process, customised medicines can combine multiple medicines into one tablet.
