Pharmaceutical formulation and manufacturing using particle/powder technology for personalized medicines

Particle/powder technology is used in the manufacture of many pharmaceutical products, and research on the physical properties of particles in the nano- to micro-particle range is important in the pharmaceutical field. The concept of precision medicine will require an increasing shift in pharmaceutical manufacturing toward the design of individualized products. This perspective article focuses on particle design and powder technology for advanced formulations that will be needed in the future for individualized drug formulations and on-demand production. Nanoparticles as drug carriers in drug delivery systems will require particle designs to meet the treatment requirements of individual patients with a particular disease. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, process intensification, such as continuous manufacturing and integrated drug production from drug synthesis to final formulation, has attracted increased attention. Digital design approaches, such as artificial intelligence based on computer-aided development, also will be increasingly used. Continuous production of pharmaceutical products enables downsizing of manufacturing equipment, and on-demand manufacturing equipment has been developed. In addition, additive manufacturing, such as 3D printing, is considered to be suitable for personalized formulations, and small-scale powder handling and predictive modeling of powder characterization will be important for individual preparations.