http://www.reachoutrecovery.com/the-recovery-daily/news/item/60804-what-could-the-rise-in-3d-printing-mean-for-drug-addicts The popularity of personal 3D printers began to rise in 2011 as prices began to fall. 3D printers typically run between $250 and $2,500 making them more readily accessible to people than ever before.
With the growing ease of access and services available, many are questioning how the accessibility of 3D printers will affect other markets, such as illegal drugs.
One of the greatest contributing factors to the rise of prescription drug abuse is the ease of accessibility. Prescription drugs have become readily available in most households, and as a result prescription drug addiction has exploded in recent years. The increased availability of 3D printers raises similar concerns. Increased accessibility to 3D printers opens a door to even more chemical compounds without many of the associated risks. While many people are wary of interacting with a drug dealer or nervous about unknown contents in drugs, 3D printers remove many of these fears, making it easier for individuals to experiment and take risks they may have otherwise avoided.
Ease of accessibility is one of the most common contributors to initial drug use and a frequent factor in continued use. With minimal barriers, it is easier to use illicit substances and develop addiction. For many, the perception of safety also contributes to the rise in substance abuse. The ability to print drugs in the comfort of one’s home can contribute to the false belief that easy accessibility means there is no danger in use—this is similar to the phenomenon we have experience with the recent rise in Prescription drug accessibility and abuse.
Just as is the case with prescription drugs, as 3D printers become more readily available, it is important to monitor access and use. While 3D-printing drugs and prescriptions is still in its infant stages, the rapidly developing market will surely make it an everyday reality in the upcoming years.