Computer-Assisted Manufacturing of Medicines

Abstract

Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), in the twenty-first century, is the automated manufacturing process that works in line with computer-assisted design (CAD) and allows machines to build artefacts directly from the fed designs into the software without any manual intervention to set up machines and processes. CAM machines can manufacture thousands of similar products automatically in very little time. As conventional pharmaceutical manufacturing processes are very complex, the use of CAM technology in the production of tablets, powder, and liquids is far more accurate, precise, cost-effective, timely, and responsive to the goals of manufacturing with higher quality standards. An emerging CAM technique, 3D printing, has even made it possible to manufacture personalized formulations as per the individual patient’s need, and inclusive of potent drug having a narrow therapeutic index. In 2016, the very first 3D printlet of Levetiracetam (approved by USFDA) was successfully manufactured by Aprecia Pharmaceuticals, Pennsylvania which is used to treat epilepsy. Despite the exciting recent advances in 3D printing, there are still notable scientific and regulatory obstacles. As a result, the most groundbreaking applications of this technology will take time to get developed.