Application of 3D printing technology for generating hollow-type suppository shells.

Abstract The application of 3D printing technology for generating tablets is attracting the attention of the pharmaceutical industry following approval of a 3D printed tablet (Spritam) by the US Food and Drug Administration. Here we focused on hollow-type suppository formulations typically prepared as suppository shells by pharmacists in hospitals. We used a fused deposition modeling-type 3D printer and polyvinyl alcohol filament as a water soluble material to print suppository shells with various thicknesses and different inner structures by changing the printing conditions for the 3D designed objects. The hardness of the suppository shell was dependent on the thickness and designed inner structure. An active pharmaceutical ingredient ionic liquid, a novel type of liquid drug formulation, was loaded in the suppository shells. The drug dissolution profile of the suppository formulations differed depending on the type of suppository shell. Composite suppository formulations (two drugs in separate compartments in the suppository shell) were prepared as a model tailored medicine for pediatric patients. Our findings suggest that 3D printing technology is applicable to the preparation of hollow-type suppository formulations and may be compatible with on-site hospital production.