The situation is different for drugs in containers with the possibility of multiple withdrawals. This includes cans, glass containers, pipette bottles, dropper bottles, and tubes.
For the following reasons, medicinal products in multi-dose containers should only be used for a certain period of time after opening:
- After opening, atmospheric oxygen, humidity and light can reach the contents and the existing protective atmosphere is no longer present.
- The medicinal product can come into contact with the skin and the germs (e.g. bacteria, yeasts, fungi) that are present on it.
- Repeated opening increases the risk of contamination and decomposition reactions.
- The storage temperature also has an influence on the shelf life. Medicinal products without preservatives or preparations with particularly sensitive active substances and ingredients are particularly susceptible.
For medicinal products in multi-dose containers, the shelf-life after the initial opening has to be proven through stability studies.
These tests should be performed on two different batches. If different package sizes are marketed, each package size must be tested individually. It is useful to test one batch at the beginning and one batch at the end of the stated shelf life.
The requirements for an in-use stability study are described in the CPMP Guideline CPMP/QWP/2934/99 of the EMA (European Medicines Agency). A concrete test design is not specified here; it depends on the type and application as well as the packaging of the medical product.
The in-use design should simulate the withdrawal by the user. Therefore, the withdrawal mode is adapted to the quantity, frequency and duration of the recommended use.
DSI-pharm will advise you individually and create an opening design for your product that meets your needs. Corresponding in-use stability studies further support you in offering a safe, high-quality drug.
Do you have any questions, or would you like to take advantage of our services? Our expert will be happy to advise you.
Tentamus Group GmbH was founded in 2011. Tentamus is a global product and safety group with a core presence in Europe, UK, Israel, China, Japan, India and the USA. Accredited and licensed Tentamus Group tests, audits and consults on all products involving the human body (food & feed, pharmaceuticals & medical, agrosciences, cosmetics, agriculture & environment and nutraceutical & supplements). Tentamus Group is represented in over 65 locations worldwide. More than 2,500 highly-trained staff members work in over 2.5 million square feet of laboratory and office spaces. For further information please visit www.tentamus.com.
Tentamus Group
An der Industriebahn 5
13088 Berlin, Germany
www.tentamus.com
Tentamus Group GmbH
An der Industriebahn 5
13088 Berlin
Telefon: +49 (30) 206038-230
Telefax: +49 (30) 206038-190
http://tentamus.com
General Manager Pharma; DSI-pharm
Telefon: +49 441 3613265 449
E-Mail: serap.acikgoez@tentamus.com
Senior Project Manager – DSI-pharm
Telefon: +49 441 3613265 447
E-Mail: petra.heller@tentamus.com
