Topical Ophthalmic Drug Quality Guidance
FDA has published a draft guidance, Quality Considerations for Topical Ophthalmic Drug Products, discussing quality considerations for ophthalmic drugs such as solutions, suspensions, emulsions, gels, ointments, and creams intended for topical delivery in and around the eye. The document specifically discusses:
- approaches to evaluating visible particulate matter, extractables and leachables, and impurities and degradation products;
- the use of in vitro drug release/dissolution testing as an optional quality control strategy for certain ophthalmic dosage forms;
- recommendations for the design, delivery, and dispensing features of container closure systems; and
- recommendations for stability studies.