Standard Operating Procedure for Finished Product Testing for Creams
1) Purpose
The purpose of this SOP is to define procedures for conducting finished product testing on creams. This ensures that creams meet specified quality standards before release for distribution and use.
2) Scope
This SOP applies to the Quality Control Department and personnel responsible for conducting finished product testing of creams. It covers testing methods, acceptance criteria, documentation, and reporting requirements.
3) Responsibilities
The Quality Control Manager is responsible for overseeing finished product testing activities. The Quality Control Team and Testing Technicians are responsible for executing and ensuring compliance with this SOP.
4) Procedure
4.1 Sampling
4.1.1 Select representative samples of finished creams from the batch for testing.
4.1.2 Ensure samples are taken aseptically and in accordance with sampling plans.
4.1.3 Label each sample with batch information and identification numbers.
4.2 Visual Inspection
4.2.1 Conduct visual inspection of samples for any signs of contamination, discoloration, or physical defects.
4.2.2 Record observations of visual inspection findings.
4.3 Identification and Documentation
4.3.1 Verify the identity of each sample against batch records and labeling.
4.3.2 Document sample information including batch number, sampling date, and storage conditions.
4.4 Physical Tests
4.4.1 Perform physical tests such as viscosity testing, pH testing, and appearance evaluation according to specified methods.
4.4.2 Record test results and compare against acceptance criteria.
4.5 Chemical Tests
4.5.1 Perform chemical tests including assay of active ingredients and preservative content testing as per approved methods.
4.5.2 Record test results and compare against acceptance criteria.
4.6 Microbiological Tests
4.6.1 Conduct microbiological tests including microbial limits testing and sterility testing where applicable.
4.6.2 Record test results and compare against acceptance criteria.
4.7 Stability Testing
4.7.1 Perform stability testing on samples to ensure product stability over defined periods and under specified conditions.
4.7.2 Record stability test results and compare against acceptance criteria.
4.8 Additional Tests
4.8.1 Perform additional tests as required by regulatory guidelines or specific customer requirements.
4.8.2 Record test results and compare against acceptance criteria.
4.9 Acceptance Criteria
4.9.1 Establish acceptance criteria based on regulatory requirements, product specifications, and compendial standards.
4.9.2 Evaluate test results against acceptance criteria to determine pass or fail status for each sample.
4.9.3 Document and justify acceptance or rejection decisions based on test results.
4.10 Documentation and Reporting
4.10.1 Document all finished product testing activities, including sample preparation, testing methods, procedures, results, and observations.
4.10.2 Prepare finished product testing reports summarizing test conditions, results, conclusions, and recommendations.
4.10.3 Obtain approval from Quality Control Management for finished product testing reports.
5) Abbreviations, if any
SOP: Standard Operating Procedure
QC: Quality Control
USP: United States Pharmacopeia
6) Documents, if any
Product Batch Records
Finished Product Testing Protocols
Finished Product Testing Reports
Non-Conforming Material Reports
7) Reference, if any
ICH Q7: Good Manufacturing Practice Guide for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
USP
8) SOP Version
Version 1.0