Procedure for Content Uniformity in Tablets

1) Purpose

The purpose of this SOP is to outline the procedure for testing content uniformity in finished tablets to ensure each tablet contains the correct amount of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) within specified limits.

2) Scope

This SOP applies to all tablet formulations manufactured within the facility that require content uniformity testing as per regulatory requirements.

3) Responsibilities

Quality Control (QC) Department: Responsible for conducting content uniformity testing and ensuring compliance with this SOP.
Production Department: Responsible for providing tablet samples and supporting QC during testing.

4) Procedure

4.1 Sample Selection:
    4.1.1 Select representative samples of finished tablets from different batches.
    4.1.2 Ensure samples are taken randomly and cover the entire batch production.

4.2 Sample Preparation:
    4.2.1 Disintegrate tablets to obtain a homogenous sample of API.
    4.2.2 Prepare sample solutions or suspensions as per validated methods and dilutions if necessary.
    4.2.3 Ensure samples are properly identified, labeled, and stored under appropriate conditions.

4.3 Content Uniformity Testing:
    4.3.1 Analyze individual tablets or sample solutions using validated analytical methods, such as HPLC or UV-Vis spectroscopy.
    4.3.2 Determine API content in each tablet or sample solution.
    4.3.3 Calculate the mean and relative standard deviation (RSD) of API content across the sample set.
    4.3.4 Compare results against acceptance criteria specified in pharmacopeial standards or internal specifications.

4.4 Calculation and Interpretation:
    4.4.1 Calculate the mean content and RSD using validated formulas.
    4.4.2 Evaluate content uniformity results to ensure compliance with specified limits.
    4.4.3 Investigate and document any deviations from expected results, including outliers or non-uniformity.

4.5 Acceptance Criteria:
    4.5.1 Tablets are considered uniform if the RSD of API content does not exceed predefined limits.
    4.5.2 Ensure all analytical controls and method validation parameters meet predefined criteria.

4.6 Documentation:
    4.6.1 Record all content uniformity testing procedures, results, and observations in the Content Uniformity Testing Record.
    4.6.2 Maintain detailed records of sample preparation, testing conditions, and any deviations encountered.
    4.6.3 Review and approve the documentation by QC Manager.

5) Abbreviations, if any

QC: Quality Control
API: Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient
HPLC: High Performance Liquid Chromatography
UV-Vis: Ultraviolet-Visible Spectroscopy
RSD: Relative Standard Deviation

6) Documents, if any

Content Uniformity Testing Record
Method Validation Report for Content Uniformity
Sampling Plan Document

7) Reference, if any

USP General Chapter <905> – Uniformity of Dosage Units
Pharmacopeial standards for Content Uniformity in Tablets

8) SOP Version

Version 1.0