TLDR 3D printing can make microneedles for drug delivery faster and cheaper.
This review discussed the potential of 3D printing as a transformative approach for manufacturing microneedles (MNs) used in transdermal drug delivery. It highlighted the advantages of 3D printing, such as the ability to produce MNs from digital models in a single step, which could overcome the time-consuming and costly nature of traditional manufacturing methods. The paper surveyed various 3D printing technologies, their benefits, and drawbacks, and examined current research on 3D printed MN-assisted drug delivery systems. It also analyzed factors affecting the mechanical properties of 3D printed MNs and outlined the regulatory framework and evaluation methods for these devices.
26 citations
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June 2020 in “Polymers” Microneedle made of iron oxide and PVA helps hair regrowth in alopecia treatment.
166 citations
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February 2020 in “Advanced Functional Materials” The smart bandage improved healing in diabetic mice by delivering drugs directly into wounds.
149 citations
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September 2017 in “Pharmaceutics” Pig skin is a good substitute for human skin to measure drug absorption, but differences in skin structure and enzymes across species must be considered.
12 citations
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November 2022 in “Cosmetics” 3D printed microneedles are likely to become more common in cosmetics for better skin delivery.
28 citations
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September 2020 in “Pharmaceutics” 3D-printed mesoporous scaffolds show promise for personalized drug delivery with controlled release.
1 citations
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August 2023 in “Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews” Microneedles are promising for long-acting drug delivery and can improve patient compliance, but more data is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
61 citations
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April 2023 in “Bioactive Materials” Microneedles are effective for painless drug delivery and promoting wound healing and tissue regeneration.
86 citations
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August 2021 in “Polymers” Microneedles are effective for drug delivery, vaccinations, fluid extraction, and treating hair loss, with advancements in manufacturing like 3D printing.
