Cellulose and its derivatives for application in 3D printing of pharmaceuticals

Background: Three-dimensional printing (3DP) has emerged as an advanced manufacturing technology capable of producing complex yet precise medicines intended for patient-centric drug therapy. However, printable materials currently available for 3DP are far too limited. Area covered: The current article covers various cellulose-based polymers as well as their applications, especially in 3DP of oral solid dosage forms. The review focuses on their physicochemical properties, roles, and functions in conventional as well as 3DP dosage forms, and the characteristics of the obtained printed products are discussed. In addition, the challenges and considerations for processing cellulose-based feedstock materials are briefly presented. Expert opinion: Cellulose and its derivatives are regarded as suitable polymers with a huge potential for applications in 3DP drug delivery systems. It is therefore essential to better understand cellulose-based printable polymers and their applications in 3DP.