Abstract: 3D printing technology has the advantages of accurate spatial distribution, accurate drug release and personalized drug dosage, which can make up for the shortcomings of traditional pharmaceutical technology. In recent years drop-on powder (DoP) 3D printing technology has been widely used in pharmaceutical preparation. Compared with other types of 3D printing technology, it is more simple, flexible and easy to operate. In 2015, Aprecia Pharmaceuticals announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves the launch of its first instant tablet Spritam^® (levetiracetam) made with DoP 3D printing. After the first 3D printed medicine was launched, people also saw the unique advantages and broad prospects of DoP 3D printing technology platform in pharmaceutical preparation. This review focuses on the technical principles and key factors of DoP 3D printing, its application in the preparation field and its future development challenges.