Why it Matters that the FDA Just Approved the First 3D-Printed Drug

For the first time ever, the FDA has approved a 3D-printed prescription pill for consumer use. This 3D-printed pill, which will sold by Aprecia Pharmaceuticals under the name Spritam, could be used by the more than 3 million adults and children in America who suffer from certain types of seizures caused by epilepsy. This 3D printing innovation could have far-ranging implications for the pharmaceutical industry for several reasons.

First, it means that we could see the 3D printing process used to create drugs that are easier to consume and more effective to use as part of a regular medication schedule. “By combining 3D printing technology with a highly-prescribed epilepsy treatment, Spritam is designed to fill a need for patients who struggle with their current medication experience,” according to Don Wetherhold, CEO of Aprecia.

As a result of Aprecia’s proprietary 3D printing process known as the ZipDose Technology platform, the physical composition of the Spritam pill can be made more porous than typical pills, meaning that it dissolves almost instantaneously when added to a liquid. It...