SOP Guide for Pharma

Capsule: SOP for Handling Controlled Substances in Dispensing – V 2.0

Capsule: SOP for Handling Controlled Substances in Dispensing – V 2.0

Standard Operating Procedure for Handling Controlled Substances in Dispensing

Department Capsule Manufacturing
SOP No. SOP/CM/016/2025
Supersedes SOP/CM/016/2022
Page No. Page 1 of 7
Issue Date 01/02/2025
Effective Date 05/02/2025
Review Date 01/02/2026

1. Purpose

To define the procedures for handling controlled substances during the dispensing process in capsule manufacturing, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and maintaining the security of controlled materials.

2. Scope

This SOP applies to all controlled substances used in capsule manufacturing, ensuring that they are handled, dispensed, and documented correctly to comply with regulatory and safety standards.

3. Responsibilities

4. Accountability

The Manufacturing Supervisor is accountable for ensuring that controlled substances are handled according to the SOP. The QA Manager is responsible for overseeing compliance with regulations and ensuring that all documentation is properly recorded.

5. Procedure

5.1 Handling Controlled Substances

Follow the steps below to ensure the proper handling of controlled substances during dispensing:

  1. Access Control
    1. Controlled substances must be stored in a secure area with limited access. Only authorized personnel with proper clearance should handle these substances.
    2. Ensure that a log is maintained for all personnel accessing the storage area, including their time and reason for access.
  2. Material Verification
    1. Before dispensing, verify the identity and quantity of the controlled substance by cross-checking the material’s label, batch number, and Certificate of Analysis (CoA) with the work order and batch record.
    2. Ensure that the material is physically checked for any tampering or damage before dispensing.

5.2 Dispensing Controlled Substances

Ensure the proper dispensing of controlled substances by following these steps:

  1. Pre-Dispensing Documentation
    1. Complete the necessary documentation before dispensing, including the work order reference, batch number, and quantities to be dispensed.
    2. Ensure that the controlled substance is logged in the Controlled Substance Dispensing Log (Annexure-1) with the date, time, quantity, and personnel involved in the dispensing.
  2. Dispense Using Secure Equipment
    1. Use tamper-proof and secured dispensing equipment to prevent unauthorized access during the dispensing process.
    2. Ensure that only the required amount is dispensed and the correct material is used for the formulation.
  3. Barcode Scanning and Verification
    1. If barcode scanning technology is available, ensure that each controlled substance is scanned to verify the correct material and quantity before dispensing.
    2. Document the barcode scan results in the Material Dispensing Log (Annexure-2) to maintain traceability and ensure dispensing accuracy.

5.3 Post-Dispensing Verification

Verify that the dispensing process has been completed correctly:

  1. Review Dispensing Records
    1. After dispensing, verify the dispensing records against the actual material quantities used and ensure that all data matches the work order and batch record.
    2. Confirm that all required fields in the Material Dispensing Log (Annexure-2) are completed, including the date, time, personnel involved, and any discrepancies noted during dispensing.
  2. Confirm Correct Quantity Dispensed
    1. If there are any discrepancies between the amount dispensed and the amount recorded, stop further dispensing and investigate the issue immediately.
    2. Document any discrepancies in the Discrepancy Report (Annexure-3) and initiate corrective actions as necessary.

5.4 Security and Storage of Controlled Substances

Ensure the proper storage and security of controlled substances:

  1. Secure Storage Area
    1. Store all controlled substances in a locked, secure area that is accessible only to authorized personnel. Ensure that access is monitored and documented.
    2. Verify that the security system (e.g., access logs, surveillance cameras) is operational and regularly maintained.
  2. Inventory Management
    1. Regularly update the inventory system to reflect the quantities of controlled substances in stock and dispensed.
    2. Conduct periodic physical counts of controlled substances to ensure that inventory records are accurate and that no discrepancies are present.

5.5 Documentation and Record-Keeping

Ensure proper documentation for compliance and traceability:

  1. Controlled Substance Dispensing Log
    1. Document all controlled substance dispensing activities in the Controlled Substance Dispensing Log (Annexure-1), including material names, batch numbers, quantities dispensed, and personnel involved.
    2. Ensure that all entries are verified and signed by the dispensing operator and the QA team.
  2. Audit Trail
    1. Maintain an audit trail of all controlled substance transactions, including material receipt, dispensing, and final disposition.
    2. Ensure that the records are securely stored and easily accessible for audits and inspections by regulatory authorities.

5.6 Training and Compliance

Ensure that all personnel involved in handling controlled substances are properly trained:

  1. Initial and Ongoing Training
    1. Provide initial training for all personnel involved in the dispensing of controlled substances, covering procedures, security protocols, and regulatory requirements.
    2. Conduct regular refresher training sessions to ensure ongoing compliance with SOPs and regulatory standards.
  2. Compliance Monitoring
    1. Regularly monitor the compliance of dispensing personnel with the procedures outlined in this SOP.
    2. Address any non-compliance issues promptly and take corrective actions as necessary.

6. Abbreviations

7. Documents

  1. Controlled Substance Dispensing Log (Annexure-1)
  2. Discrepancy Report (Annexure-3)
  3. Material Dispensing Log (Annexure-2)

8. References

9. SOP Version

Version: 2.0

10. Approval Section

Prepared By Checked By Approved By
Signature
Date
Name
Designation
Department

11. Annexures

Annexure-1: Controlled Substance Dispensing Log

Date Material Name Batch Number Quantity Dispensed Dispensed By
03/02/2025 API-789 Batch 56789 200 mg John Doe

Annexure-2: Material Dispensing Log

Date Material Name Batch Number Quantity Dispensed Dispensed By
03/02/2025 Excipient-456 Batch 12345 500 g John Doe

Revision History:

Revision Date Revision No. Revision Details You said: Start from Annexure 3 ChatGPT said: Certainly! Here's the continuation from Annexure 3 in SOP 16: SOP for Handling Controlled Substances in Dispensing: html Copy

Annexure-3: Discrepancy Report

Date Material Name Batch Number Issue Description Corrective Action
04/02/2025 API-123 Batch 56789 Incorrect batch received Returned to supplier for replacement

Revision History:

Revision Date Revision No. Revision Details Reason for Revision Approved By
01/01/2024 1.0 Initial Version New SOP Creation QA Head
01/02/2025 2.0 Updated controlled substance handling procedures Standardization and clarity QA Head