Sales representatives from Aprecia Pharmaceuticals are making a strong pitch with doctors as the Blue Ash-based company launched production last week of its 3D printed pill, the first such pill approved by the FDA.
Until later this year the pills are being printed in New Jersey. The Blue Ash facility has to get federal approval, and is doing test runs.
SPRITAM is an epilepsy drug that is designed to carry a greater dosage and disintegrate quickly in the patient's mouth or in a cup. The company says this is especially beneficial for patients who have trouble swallowing like children or the elderly.
Aprecia says printing the drug with a 3D printing machine, layer by layer, enables the drug to dissolve quicker than other drugs.
Here's how it is manufactured:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HMENLPkftQ&feature=youtu.be
Aprecia has three other 3D printed medicines in the pipeline, all for the central nervous system. It isn't ruling out partnerships with other companies for new compounds, including over-the-counter drugs and veterinary medicines.
