Procedure for Autoinjector Functionality Testing

1) Purpose

The purpose of this SOP is to outline the procedure for testing the functionality of autoinjectors used for administering pharmaceutical products to ensure proper operation and safety.

2) Scope

This SOP applies to all autoinjectors used for administering pharmaceutical products, requiring testing to comply with regulatory requirements and internal specifications regarding functionality.

3) Responsibilities

Quality Control (QC) Department: Responsible for performing autoinjector functionality testing.
Quality Assurance (QA) Department: Responsible for review and approval of testing procedures and results.
Manufacturing Department: Responsible for providing autoinjectors and support during testing.

4) Procedure

4.1 Sample Selection:
    4.1.1 Select representative autoinjectors from current production batches.
    4.1.2 Ensure samples include different injector types and configurations.

4.2 Functionality Testing:
    4.2.1 Prime the autoinjector as per manufacturer’s instructions.
    4.2.2 Perform simulated injections to verify functionality, including dose accuracy and needle deployment.
    4.2.3 Record observations of injector performance and any deviations from expected behavior.

4.3 Dose Accuracy Verification:
    4.3.1 Use a calibrated device to measure and verify the accuracy of dose delivery.
    4.3.2 Compare delivered doses against intended doses and acceptance criteria.

4.4 Safety Mechanism Testing:
    4.4.1 Test safety mechanisms (e.g., needle retraction) to ensure proper operation and user safety.
    4.4.2 Evaluate mechanism performance under various conditions (e.g., after injection, during handling).

4.5 Compatibility Testing:
    4.5.1 Verify compatibility of autoinjector materials with pharmaceutical products to prevent interaction or degradation.
    4.5.2 Perform testing under simulated storage conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity).

4.6 Data Analysis:
    4.6.1 Compile and analyze test data, including functionality test results, dose accuracy verification, safety mechanism testing, and compatibility assessments.
    4.6.2 Review data against acceptance criteria and regulatory standards.

4.7 Reporting:
    4.7.1 Prepare an Autoinjector Functionality Testing Report summarizing test procedures, results, and conclusions.
    4.7.2 Include recommendations for improvements or corrective actions based on test findings.
    4.7.3 Submit the report to QA for review and approval and maintain records as per facility procedures.

5) Abbreviations, if any

QC: Quality Control
QA: Quality Assurance

6) Documents, if any

Autoinjector Functionality Testing Report
Functionality Test Records
Dose Accuracy Verification Data

7) Reference, if any

ISO 11608-1:2014 – Needle-based injection systems for medical use
FDA Guidance for Industry – Container Closure Systems for Packaging Human Drugs and Biologics

8) SOP Version

Version 1.0