A cross – section analysis of 3D printed drugs’ awareness and knowledge between pharmacy students and healthcare professionals: A case study of Albania

Three-dimensional (3D) printing represents a significant innovation in pharmaceutical manufacturing, enabling personalized dosage forms and on-demand drug production. Despite its growing global relevance, limited data exist regarding awareness of 3D printed medicines on individuals in health sector in emerging European countries. In this focus, our study aimed to assess and compare the level of knowledge and awareness regarding 3D printed medicines in Albania, taking in consideration the more interested and crucial pairs, such as pharmacy students and healthcare professionals.A cross-sectional survey was conducted using structured online questionnaires with a total of 218 participants, respectively 141 students and 77 healthcare professionals. A composite knowledge score (ranging 0 to 1) was calculated by coding responses to key awareness questions. Descriptive statistics, independent sample t-coefficients, effect size calculation, and logistic regression analysis were performed.The overall knowledge level was low in both groups. Pharmacy students demonstrated a mean knowledge score of 0.160 ± 0.128, while healthcare professionals had a mean score of 0.146 ± 0.068. No statistically significant difference was observed between groups (p = 0.272; Cohen’s d = 0.14). However, logistic regression (OR = 3.06, p < 0.001) and χ²-test (χ² = 23.7, p < 0.001) analysis indicated that healthcare professionals were more likely to demonstrate higher knowledge levels. No significant association was found between gender and knowledge level.Despite growing awareness of pharmaceutical 3D printing, structured educational exposure remains limited between students and professionals. These findings show strong interest in further training, highlighting the need for curricular integration and continuing professional development initiatives to support future implementation of such a technique in Albania.