Guidelines for Stability Testing of Drugs in Novel Packaging
1) Purpose
The purpose of this SOP is to provide a standardized procedure for conducting stability studies on drugs packaged in novel packaging materials. Stability testing ensures that the packaging maintains the drug’s safety, efficacy, and quality under various storage conditions throughout its shelf life.
2) Scope
This SOP applies to all drugs packaged in novel packaging materials, such as biodegradable polymers, smart packaging, and temperature-sensitive materials, produced or handled by the organization. It is intended for personnel involved in packaging development, quality control, and regulatory compliance.
3)
Packaging Scientist: Responsible for designing the stability study protocol and selecting appropriate stability-indicating parameters.
Quality Control (QC) Team: Responsible for conducting stability tests according to the approved protocol and documenting results.
QA Team: Responsible for reviewing data, ensuring regulatory compliance, and approving the final stability report.
4) 
Procedure
4.1 Study Design:
- Identify stability-indicating parameters (e.g., moisture ingress, barrier properties, chemical compatibility) relevant to the packaging material.
- Select appropriate analytical methods (e.g., Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate Testing, Oxygen Transmission Rate Testing) to evaluate these parameters.
- Define storage conditions (e.g., room temperature, refrigerated) based on the packaging’s characteristics and regulatory guidelines.
- Develop a study protocol outlining the objectives, sampling schedule, and analytical methods to be used.
4.2 Sample Preparation:
- Prepare samples from representative production batches and label them with batch numbers, packaging conditions, and sampling time points.
- Store samples in designated stability chambers under specified conditions.
4.3 Testing Schedule:
- Conduct initial testing on all samples to establish baseline data for the selected parameters.
- Perform follow-up testing at predetermined intervals (e.g., 1 month, 3 months, 6 months) to monitor changes in packaging stability over time.
- Document all test results and analyze data for trends or deviations from acceptance criteria.
4.4 Data Analysis and Reporting:
- Analyze data using statistical methods to determine trends and compliance with acceptance criteria.
- Prepare a stability study report summarizing findings, conclusions, and recommendations for packaging and storage conditions.
- Submit the report for QA review and archiving.
5) Abbreviations, if any
QC: Quality Control
QA: Quality Assurance
6) Documents, if any
Novel Packaging Stability Protocol: Document detailing the study plan and methodology.
Analytical Data Records: Data sheets for all tests performed.
7) Reference, if any
ICH Q1A(R2): Stability Testing of New Drug Substances and Products
8) SOP Version
Version 1.0