SOP Guide for Pharma

Tablets: SOP for Accelerated Stability Testing of Tablets – V 2.0

Auditor

Tablets: SOP for Accelerated Stability Testing of Tablets – V 2.0

Standard Operating Procedure for Accelerated Stability Testing of Tablets

Department Quality Control
SOP No. SOP/TAB/100/2025
Supersedes SOP/TAB/100/2022
Page No. Page 1 of 7
Issue Date 01/03/2026
Effective Date 06/03/2026
Review Date 01/03/2027

1. Purpose

To define the procedure for performing accelerated stability testing on tablet formulations, ensuring that the tablets maintain their quality, efficacy, and safety under accelerated storage conditions.

2. Scope

This SOP applies to the accelerated stability testing of tablet products, ensuring that the tablets are stored under controlled conditions to simulate the effects of long-term storage in a shorter time frame.

3. Responsibilities

4. Accountability

The QC Manager is accountable for ensuring that the accelerated stability testing is performed accurately and consistently. The QA Manager is responsible for reviewing the stability test results and approving the batch for release based on the data obtained.

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5. Procedure

5.1 Sample Collection

  1. Collect a representative sample of tablets from the batch, as specified in the batch record or pharmacopeial guidelines (usually a minimum of 6 tablets or as specified).
  2. Ensure that the tablets are free from defects such as cracks, chips, or discoloration that could affect the stability testing results.
  3. Label the sample appropriately for identification during testing.

5.2 Preparation of Testing Apparatus

  1. Ensure that all laboratory equipment, such as stability chambers, temperature/humidity controllers, and test instruments, are calibrated and functioning properly.
  2. Set up the stability chamber to the required temperature and humidity conditions as per the accelerated stability test specifications (e.g., 40°C and 75% relative humidity).
  3. Ensure that the chamber is operating correctly, with continuous monitoring of temperature and humidity levels during the test period.

5.3 Performing Accelerated Stability Test

  1. Place the tablet samples in the stability chamber for the prescribed period (e.g., 6 months, typically accelerated to 3 months), ensuring that the sample containers are properly sealed and labeled.
  2. Monitor the storage conditions throughout the test period, making sure the temperature and humidity levels remain within the specified range.
  3. Remove the tablets from the chamber at the specified time points (e.g., 0, 1, 2, and 3 months) for testing.
  4. Perform the required quality control tests at each time point, which may include:
    • Appearance testing
    • Hardness testing
    • Disintegration testing
    • Dissolution testing
    • Content uniformity or assay testing

5.4 Data Recording and Calculation

  1. Record all results from the stability tests, including appearance, hardness, dissolution, and any observed changes in the tablet characteristics (Annexure-1).
  2. Compare the results at each time point to the initial results to evaluate any changes or degradation in the tablet’s quality and stability.
  3. Calculate the percentage change in tablet characteristics, such as dissolution rate or assay, and document whether the tablets meet the stability acceptance criteria.
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5.5 Acceptance Criteria

  1. The tablets must meet the specified quality criteria at each time point, including:
    • Appearance: No significant color changes or discoloration
    • Hardness: Should remain within the established range
    • Disintegration: Tablets must disintegrate as per the specifications
    • Dissolution: Dissolution profiles should remain within the established limits
    • Assay: No significant loss in active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) content
  2. If any of the criteria are not met, investigate and document the findings in the deviation report (Annexure-2), and determine whether corrective action is required.

5.6 Documentation and Record-Keeping

  1. Document all stability testing results, including test methods, time points, and any deviations, in the batch record (Annexure-1).
  2. Ensure that all records are signed, dated, and stored according to the company’s record retention policy for future audits and inspections.
  3. Maintain raw data, test results, and supporting documentation for future reference and regulatory compliance.

5.7 Post-Test Cleanup

  1. Clean all equipment used for stability testing, including the stability chamber, test instruments, and sample containers, according to the cleaning SOP to prevent cross-contamination between tests.
  2. Ensure that all testing equipment is properly maintained and calibrated for future use.
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6. Abbreviations

7. Documents

  1. Batch Record (Annexure-1)
  2. Deviation Report (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: Batch Record

Batch Number Tablet Sample Test Method Initial Hardness (kg) Hardness After 3 Months (kg) Result
Batch 001 Tablet Sample Dissolution 6.5 6.4 Pass

Annexure-2: Deviation Report

Deviation Date Batch Number Deviation Description Corrective Action Responsible Person
15/12/2025 Batch 001 Tablet hardness decreased below specification Adjusted formulation and re-tested Jane Doe

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 Testing Methodology Refined stability testing protocols QA Head
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