Module 3 - Strategic case studies in practice

ICH Q3D(R1) Guideline

9.

A NALYTICAL P ROCEDURES

The determination of elemental impurities should be conducted using appropriate procedures suitable for their intended purposes. Unless otherwise justified, the test should be specific for each elemental impurity identified for control during the risk assessment. Pharmacopoeial procedures or suitable alternative procedures for determining levels of elemental impurities should be used.

10.

L IFECYCLE M ANAGEMENT

The quality systems and management responsibilities described in ICH Q10 are intended to encourage the use of science-based and risk-based approaches at each lifecycle stage, thereby promoting continual improvement across the entire product lifecycle. Product and process knowledge should be managed from development through the commercial life of the product up to and including product discontinuation. Knowledge gained from development combined with commercial manufacturing experience and data can be used to further improve process understanding and process performance. Such improvements can enhance controls on elemental impurities. It is recognized that the elemental impurity data available for some components is somewhat limited at the date of publication of this guideline, which may direct the applicant to a specific set of controls. Additional data, if developed, may lead to modifications of the controls. If changes to the drug product or components have the potential to change the elemental impurity content of the drug product, the risk assessment, including established controls for elemental impurities, should be re-evaluated. Such changes could include, but are not limited to: changes in synthetic routes, excipient suppliers, raw materials, processes, equipment, container closure systems or facilities. All changes are subject to internal change management process (ICH Q10) and if needed appropriate regional regulatory requirements.

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