Standard Operating Procedure for Stability Testing of Modified Release Products
1) Purpose
The purpose of this SOP is to provide a standardized approach for conducting stability studies for modified-release products in compliance with US FDA and ICH guidelines to ensure their safety, quality, and efficacy throughout their shelf life.
2) Scope
This SOP applies to all modified-release products that require stability testing under FDA and ICH guidelines. It is relevant to departments involved in production, quality control, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance.
3) Responsibilities
- Quality Control (QC) Team: Conducts stability testing as per protocol.
- Quality Assurance (QA) Team: Reviews and approves stability protocols and reports.
- Regulatory Affairs Team: Ensures stability data meets submission requirements.
4) Procedure
- Preparation of Stability Protocol
- Draft a stability study protocol detailing storage conditions, test intervals, and analytical methods.
- Ensure the protocol is compliant with FDA and ICH guidelines.
- Submit the protocol for review and approval by the QA team.
- Execution of Stability Studies
- Store samples in designated chambers under specified conditions (e.g., 25°C/60% RH, 30°C/65% RH).
- Conduct tests at each interval to assess stability parameters specific to modified-release formulations, such as dissolution and drug release profiles.
- Document all observations, test results, and any deviations from the protocol.
- Data Analysis and Reporting
- Analyze data to ensure compliance with FDA and ICH guidelines for modified-release products.
- Prepare a comprehensive stability study report for submission.
5) Abbreviations, if any
- QC: Quality Control
- QA: Quality Assurance
- ICH: International Council for Harmonisation
- FDA: Food and Drug Administration
- RH: Relative Humidity
6) Documents, if any
- Stability Study Protocol
- Analytical Test Reports
- Stability Study Report
7) Reference, if any
- FDA Guidance for Industry: Extended Release and Long-Acting Products
- ICH Q1A(R2): Stability Testing of New Drug Substances and Products
8) SOP Version
Version 1.0