Embedded three-dimensional printing (e-3DP) is an emerging method for additive\nmanufacturing where semi-solid materials are extruded within a solidifying liquid matrix. Here,\nwe present the first example of employing e-3DP in the pharmaceutical field and demonstrate the\nfabrication of bespoke chewable dosage forms with dual drug loading for potential use in pediatrics.\nLegoTM-like chewable bricks made of edible soft material (gelatin-based matrix) were produced\nby directly extruding novel printing patterns of model drug ink (embedded phase) into a liquid\ngelatin-based matrix (embedding phase) at an elevated temperature (70 DegreeC) to then solidify at room\ntemperature. Dose titration of the two model drugs (paracetamol and ibuprofen) was possible\nby using specially designed printing patterns of the embedded phase to produce varying doses.\nA linearity [R2 = 0.9804 (paracetamol) and 0.9976 (ibuprofen)] was achieved between percentage\nof completion of printing patterns and achieved doses using a multi-step method. The impact of\nembedded phase rheological behavior, the printing speed and the needle size of the embedded\nphase were examined. Owning to their appearance, modular nature, ease of personalizing dose and\ngeometry, and tailoring and potential inclusion of various materials, this new dosage form concept\nholds a substantial promise for novel dosage forms in pediatrics.
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