Q7 Good Manufacturing Practice 
Guidance for Active Pharmaceutical 
Ingredients 
____________________________ 
Questions and Answers 
 
Guidance for Industry 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 
Food and Drug Administration 
Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) 
Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) 
 
April 2018 
ICH 
   
 
 
Q7 Good Manufacturing Practice 
Guidance for Active Pharmaceutical 
Ingredients 
____________________________ 
Questions and Answers 
 
Guidance for Industry 
 
 
 
Additional copies are available from: 
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Center for Drug Evaluation and Research 
Food and Drug Administration 
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http://www.fda.gov/BiologicsBloodVaccines/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/Guidances/default.htm    
 
 
 
 
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 
Food and Drug Administration 
Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) 
Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) 
 
April 2018 
ICH
 
   
Contains Nonbinding Recommendations 
 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 
 
 
 
I.  INTRODUCTION (PREFACE) ...................................................................................... 1 
II.  QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ....................................................................................... 2 
A.  Scope (1) .......................................................................................................................................... 2 
B.  Quality Management (2) ................................................................................................................ 3 
C.  Personnel (3) ................................................................................................................................... 4 
D.  Buildings and Facilities  Containment (4)................................................................................ 4 
E.  Process Equipment  Cleaning (5) .............................................................................................. 5 
F.  Documentation and Records (6) ................................................................................................... 7 
G.  Materials Management (7) ............................................................................................................ 8 
H.  Production and In-Process Controls (8)....................................................................................... 9 
I.  Packaging and Identification Labeling of APIs and Intermediates (9) ................................... 10 
J.  Storage and Distribution (10) ..................................................................................................... 10 
K.  Laboratory Controls (11) ............................................................................................................ 11 
L.  Validation (12) .............................................................................................................................. 12 
M.  Change Control (13) .................................................................................................................... 13 
N.  Rejection and Reuse of Materials (14) ....................................................................................... 14 
O.  Complaints and Recalls (15) ....................................................................................................... 14 
P.  Contract Manufacturers (Including Laboratories) (16) ........................................................... 15 
Q.  Agents, Brokers, Traders, Distributors, Repackers, and Relabelers (17) .............................. 16 
R.  Specific Guidance for APIs Manufactured by Cell Culture/Fermentation (18) .................... 17 
S.  APIs for Use in Clinical Trials (19) ............................................................................................ 18 
T.  Glossary (20) ................................................................................................................................. 18 
ANNEX:  Q&AS LINKED TO THE RESPECTIVE SECTIONS/PARAGRAPHS OF ICH 
Q7  19 
REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................ 21 
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Contains Nonbinding Recommendations 
 
Q7 Good Manufacturing Practice Guidance for  
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients     
Questions and Answers 
1
Guidance for Industry  
 
 
This guidance represents the current thinking of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA or Agency) on 
this topic.  It does not establish any rights for any person and is not binding on FDA or the public.  You 
can use an alternative approach if it satisfies the requirements of the applicable statutes and regulations.  
To discuss an alternative approach, contact the FDA office responsible for this guidance as listed on the 
title page. 
   
 
 
I.  INTRODUCTION (Preface) 
 
The ICH guidance Q7 Good Manufacturing Practice Guidance for Active Pharmaceutical 
Ingredients is intended to provide guidance regarding good manufacturing practice (GMP) for 
the manufacturing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) under an appropriate system for 
managing quality.  It is also intended to help ensure that APIs meet the quality and purity 
characteristics that they purport, or are represented, to possess.   
 
Since the ICH Q7 Guidance was finalized, experience with implementing the guidance 
worldwide has given rise to requests for clarification of uncertainties due to the interpretation of 
certain sections.  This question and answer (Q&A) document is intended to respond to those 
requests. 
 
The ICH Q7 document should be read in its entirety regardless of the nature of the 
manufacturing activities being conducted to fully understand the linkages between certain 
sections and successfully implement appropriate good manufacturing practices (GMPs) at all 
stages of the active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) supply chain, including distribution.  A 
table is provided as an annex of this document showing the link between each Q&A and the 
relevant sections of ICH Q7 and other ICH Quality guidance. 
 
ICH would like to acknowledge the work undertaken by the Pharmaceutical Inspection Co-
operation Scheme (PIC/S).  PIC/S contributed to this document by selecting and reviewing 
relevant Q&As that had been collected from training sessions since the implementation of Q7 
                                                 
1 This guidance was developed within the Q7 Implementation Working Group (IWG) of the International Council 
for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) and has been subject to 
consultation by the regulatory parties, in accordance with the ICH process.  The Q&As in this document have been 
endorsed by the ICH Steering Committee at Step 4 of the ICH process, June 2015.  At Step 4 of the process, the final 
draft is recommended for adoption to the regulatory bodies of the European Union, Japan, and North America. 
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and transferred the output of these reviews to the ICH Q7 IWG for consideration and 
consolidation, as appropriate.  Additional questions were developed based on responses from an 
ICH survey.  PIC/S further contributed to the development of the document as an ICH Interested 
Party. 
 
Please note that ICH Q7 should be applied in combination with the principles laid down for 
development and manufacturing in ICH Q11 (see definition of API starting material; see also 
ICH Q8(R2) Part II),2 Quality Risk Management (ICH Q9), and Pharmaceutical Quality Systems 
(ICH Q10).  GMP principles described in ICH Q7 should be applied regardless of which 
approach is taken in pharmaceutical development and manufacturing. 
 
ICH Q7 also describes principles of GMPs to be applied in the manufacture of APIs for use in 
clinical trials (section XIX (19)) and for APIs manufactured by cell culture/fermentation (section 
XVIII (18)).3 
 
In general, FDAs guidance documents do not establish legally enforceable responsibilities.  
Instead, guidances describe the Agencys current thinking on a topic and should be viewed only 
as recommendations, unless specific regulatory or statutory requirements are cited.  The use of 
the word should in Agency guidances means that something is suggested or recommended, but 
not required.  
 
 
II.  QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS 
 
A.  Scope (1) 
 
1.1:  Should GMP according to ICH Q7 be applied for manufacturing steps before the 
defined API starting material, i.e., steps not identified in grey in Table 1? 
 
ICH Q7 does not apply to steps prior to the introduction of the API starting material.  
However, there is an expectation that an appropriate level of controls suitable for the 
production of the API starting material should be applied (ICH Q7, section I.C (1.3)). 
 
Normally, the API-starting material is defined in the regulatory filing by the applicant 
and approved in the regulatory reviewing process.  Additional guidance is provided to 
define and justify API starting material derived from various sources (ICH Q11, section 
V (5)); for master cell banks, see ICH Q5B, ICH Q5D. 
 
1.2:  Does ICH Q7 apply to manufacturing steps for the addition of substance(s) to an API 
(e.g., to stabilize the API)? 
                                                 
2 The reference list at the end of this ICH Q7 Q&A guidance contains details of other ICH guidances cited.  
 
3 The Arabic numbers in parentheses reflect the organizational breakdown in the ICH Q7 document and this Q7 
Q&A document endorsed by the ICH Steering Committee in November 2000 and June 2015, respectively.  
 
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When a mixture is classified in the regulatory filing as an API in a region or country in 
which it is used in a drug product, ICH Q7 should be applied to the manufacturing of the 
mixture (ICH Q7, section I.B (1.2), Glossary (20)  see Glossary for definition of API). 
 
 
B.  Quality Management (2) 
 
2.1:  What is meant by quality unit(s) independent from production? 
 
The intent of the term independent is to prevent any conflict of interest and ensure 
unbiased decision-making regarding quality-related decisions in the organization 
structure.  The person in the quality unit who is responsible for final decision-making 
(e.g., batch release decision) should not have responsibilities for production activities 
(ICH Q7, paragraph 2.13)4. 
 
2.2:  Does ICH Q7 expect that the quality unit performs API release testing? 
 
While the quality unit has responsibility for the release of the API, which includes 
oversight of the testing and results, ICH Q7 does not prescribe specifically who performs 
testing.  The term quality control in the ICH Q7 Glossary (section 20) refers to the 
activities, not the organizational structure. 
 
For examples of quality responsibility related to testing and release, refer to ICH Q7, 
paragraphs 2.13, 2.22, and 11.12.  Appropriate laboratory controls should be followed 
(ICH Q7, paragraphs 11.10, 16.10) regardless of who performs the testing.   
 
2.3:  Can other departments outside of the quality unit be held responsible for releasing raw 
materials and intermediates? 
 
Yes.  The quality unit is responsible for establishing a system to release or reject raw 
materials, intermediates, packaging, and labeling materials.  This responsibility cannot be 
delegated (ICH Q7, paragraph 2.22(2)).  The system established by the quality unit may 
allow other departments to release raw materials and intermediates (except intermediates 
that are for use outside the control of the manufacturer (ICH Q7, paragraph 2.22(1)) as 
long as oversight and the overall responsibility of this system remains with the quality 
unit. 
 
2.4:  Does ICH Q7 expect that sampling be performed by the quality unit? 
 
No.  ICH Q7 does not prescribe specifically who should perform the sampling (ICH Q7, 
paragraph 2.22).  However, the quality unit has responsibility for reviewing and 
approving sampling plans (ICH Q7, paragraph 11.12) and procedures.  Sampling should 
                                                 
4 Arabic numbers preceded by the word paragraph reflect specific paragraphic numbers in ICH Q7. 
 
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be performed by adequately trained personnel (ICH Q7, paragraph 3.10) and be 
appropriately documented per ICH Q7, paragraph 6.52. 
 
2.5:  What should be the frequency of a product quality review? 
 
A product quality review is generally expected annually.  Review time frames can be 
appropriately adjusted based upon manufacturing and campaign duration with adequate 
justification.  Even if no manufacturing has occurred in the review period, the quality 
review should be conducted per section ICH Q7, paragraph 2.50, and include stability, 
returns, complaints, and recalls. 
 
For example, a product quality review may encompass more or less than 12 months 
depending upon product campaign duration (ICH Q7, paragraph 2.50; ICH Q10, section 
III.F (2.6)). 
 
2.6:  Should the product quality review of results include trend analysis? 
 
Trend analysis is usually an important element in verifying the consistency of the process 
as part of the product quality review (ICH Q7, paragraphs 2.50, 2.51).  Potential tools to 
use are described in ICH Q9, Annex I.9. 
 
 
C.  Personnel (3) 
 
3.1:  What is the intent of the statement in ICH Q7, paragraph 3.12 training should be 
periodically assessed? 
 
In ICH Q7, paragraph 3.12, the statement training should be periodically assessed 
refers to a system to evaluate if personnel remain proficient and competent in their job 
tasks and responsibilities, whether more frequent, additional, or new training is needed, 
and if recurring training is up to date. 
 
3.2:  Does ICH Q7 expect the use of a consultant, and can a company delegate tasks and/or 
responsibility to a consultant? 
 
ICH Q7 does not expect the use of a consultant.  Consultants may perform delegated 
tasks and/or provide advice.  However, the ultimate responsibility for API quality must 
not be delegated (ICH Q10, section III.G (2.7); ICH Q7, sections II.B (2.2), III.C (3.3)).5 
     
 
D.  Buildings and Facilities  Containment (4) 
 
4.1:  When are dedicated production areas expected? 
                                                 
5 See 21 U.S.C. 351 (the term current good manufacturing practice includes the implementation of oversight and 
controls over the manufacturer of drugs to ensure quality, . . . .). 
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Contains Nonbinding Recommendations 
 
 
ICH Q7 expects dedicated production areas for highly sensitizing materials such as 
penicillins and cephalosporins because of the patient risk (e.g., anaphylactic shock to 
penicillin-allergic patients) from trace amounts of these compounds in other medicines 
(ICH Q7, paragraph 4.40). 
 
For materials of an infectious nature or high pharmacological activity or toxicity, a risk-
based approach should be used to determine appropriate containment measures, which 
may include validated inactivation, cleaning, and/or dedicated production areas (ICH Q7, 
paragraph 4.41). 
 
While ICH Q7 does not define high pharmacological activity or toxicity, these 
characteristics are generally determined by evaluating relevant animal and human data 
collected during research and development.  Important considerations in this evaluation 
of pharmacological activity or toxicity may include occupational exposure limit (OEL), 
permitted daily exposure (PDE), acceptable daily exposure (ADE), threshold for 
toxicological concerns (TTC), no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) (ICH safety 
guidances; ICH E2E, section II.A.1 (2.1.1)), and the consequences of cross-
contamination (ICH Q9, section IV.C (4.3)). 
 
4.2:  To what extent can quality risk management be used in establishing appropriate 
containment measures to prevent cross-contamination? 
 
The principles of quality risk management (ICH Q9, Annex II.4 should be applied to the 
design of buildings, facilities, and controls for the purpose of containment, taking into 
consideration the pharmacological/toxicological/chemical/biological properties of the raw 
material, intermediate, and/or API to be handled or manufactured. 
   
Appropriate containment measures and controls (ICH Q7, paragraph 4.42) include but are 
not limited to the following:  
  Technical controls (e.g., dedicated production areas; closed/dedicated heating, 
ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system; closed manufacturing systems; use 
of disposable technologies; design of facility and equipment for containment and ease 
of cleaning); and 
  Procedural (organizational) controls (e.g., cleaning, personnel flow, environmental 
monitoring, and training). 
Monitoring systems are important to check the effectiveness of the containment controls. 
 
 
E.  Process Equipment  Cleaning (5) 
 
5.1:  For dedicated equipment, is visually clean acceptable for verification of cleaning 
effectiveness, (i.e., no expectation for specific analytical determination)? 
 
Visually clean may be acceptable for dedicated equipment based on the ability to 
visually inspect and sufficient supporting data from cleaning studies (e.g., analytical 
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determination to demonstrate cleaning effectiveness) (ICH Q7, paragraph 12.76).  
Equipment should be cleaned at appropriate intervals (e.g., time or number of batches) to 
prevent build-up and carryover of contaminants (e.g., degradants or objectionable levels 
of microorganisms) so that they do not adversely alter the quality of the API (ICH Q7, 
paragraph 5.23, section XII.G (12.7)). 
 
5.2:  Should acceptance criteria for residues be defined for dedicated equipment? 
 
Yes.  Regardless of whether equipment is dedicated or not, it is expected that acceptance 
criteria for residues be defined and that the equipment be cleaned at appropriate intervals 
to prevent build-up and carry-over of contaminants.  Intervals can be based on number of 
batches, product change-over, time, etc. (ICH Q7, paragraphs 5.22, 5.23, 5.24, 5.25, 
8.50). 
 
Cleaning intervals and acceptance criteria should be established based on an 
understanding of the process/reactions/degradation, taking into account solubility, 
potency, toxicity, etc.  Establishment of acceptance criteria does not necessarily imply 
sampling and testing after every cleaning.  Visual inspection of equipment for cleanliness 
is an expectation of ICH Q7, paragraph 5.21.  Where validation data has confirmed 
effective cleaning, cleaning procedures should be monitored at appropriate intervals (ICH 
Q7, paragraph 12.76). 
 
5.3  Is it expected that equipment cleaning time limits be confirmed in cleaning validation? 
 
Yes.  Equipment cleaning is addressed in two sections in ICH Q7.  Although the cleaning 
validation (ICH Q7, section XII.G (12.7)) does not specifically address time limits for 
cleaning, ICH Q7, paragraph 5.21, indicates that the maximum time between completion 
of processing and equipment cleaning (dirty hold time) should be established by the 
company.  This maximum established dirty hold time is the time period for which 
evidence is available to demonstrate that the equipment can still be reliably cleaned.  This 
maximum established dirty hold time is confirmed during the initial cleaning validation 
and can be extended with appropriate supporting data. 
 
Although ICH Q7 does not specify the need for time limits between equipment cleaning 
and use in the next process (clean hold time), ICH Q7, paragraph 5.21 does state that 
written procedures should include instructions for the protection of clean equipment from 
contamination prior to use and inspection of equipment for cleanliness immediately 
before use, if practicable. 
 
5.4  Is it expected that campaign manufacturing be addressed in cleaning validation? 
 
Yes.  The cleaning validation section (ICH Q7, section XII.G (12.7)) does not 
specifically address campaign manufacture.  However, ICH Q7, paragraphs 5.23 and 8.50 
set forth the expectations that equipment be cleaned at appropriate intervals (e.g., time or 
number of batches) to prevent build-up and carryover of contaminants so that they do not 
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adversely alter the quality of the API.  The appropriate interval is confirmed during 
cleaning validation. 
 
5.5  At product changeover, are both visual examination and analytical testing necessary to 
verify that equipment is clean? 
 
Appropriate cleaning validation verifies that the cleaning process is effective.   During 
cleaning validation, both visual examination and analytical testing should be used to 
verify cleaning effectiveness (ICH Q7, paragraphs 12.72 to 75).  Once the cleaning 
process is validated, routine monitoring of cleanliness of equipment at product 
changeover should include visual inspection (ICH Q7, paragraph 12.76).   Frequency of 
analytical testing to verify ongoing effectiveness of the validated cleaning process is 
determined by the API manufacturer using a risk-based approach.   In situations where 
the cleaning process is not yet validated, both visual examination and analytical testing 
are expected. 
 
 
F.  Documentation and Records (6) 
 
6.1:  What is meant by completely distributed in ICH Q7, paragraph 6.13, which states 
that records should be retained for at least 3 years after the batch is completely 
distributed? 
   
For APIs with a retest date, ICH Q7, paragraph 6.13 states that records related to 
production, control, and distribution should be retained for at least 3 years after the API 
batch is completely distributed, which is understood as the complete distribution of the 
entire batch of the API by the API manufacturer to the next party in the supply chain. 
In the case of APIs handled by agents, brokers, traders, distributors, repackers, and 
relabelers (ICH Q7, section XVII (17)), completely distributed refers to distribution of 
the received quantity of the batch of API. 
 
The intent of ICH Q7 is that records be retained for the period of time that the API could 
be on the market in order to investigate any problems and/or product complaints.  Based 
on accepted industry practice at the time ICH Q7 was written, it was not anticipated that a 
manufacturer would set a retest date longer than 3 years.  However, the use of at least 3 
years in this section of ICH Q7 covers longer record retention periods, which is in 
alignment with the basic GMP principle and/or regional requirements that records be 
retained for the entire period the material is available on the market.   
 
It is good industry practice to consider retaining records for the period of time the drug 
product(s) in which the API was used may be available on the market. 
 
6.2:  Does a batch numbering system need to be sequential? 
 
No, ICH Q7, paragraph 6.51 says only that batch production records should have a 
unique batch or ID number. 
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6.3:  Who is responsible for the issuance of batch production records? 
 
ICH Q7, section II.C (2.3) does not specify who is responsible for the issuance of batch 
production records (ICH Q7, section VI.D (6.5)) as long as the issuance process is 
described in writing and approved by the quality unit (ICH Q7, paragraph 2.21). 
 
 
G.  Materials Management (7) 
 
7.1:  Does the phrase grouping of containers have the same meaning in ICH Q7, 
paragraphs 7.20 and 7.24? 
 
The phrase grouping of containers should be read in the context of each sentence.  A 
grouping of containers refers to multiple containers physically secured by the supplier 
(e.g., shrink-wrapped pallet) usually intended for ease of shipment and reconciliation.  
ICH Q7, paragraph 7.20 is referring to incoming visual examination of materials before 
acceptance into the facility under quarantine. 
 
The phrase in ICH Q7, paragraph 7.24, grouping of containers (batches) contains an 
additional word batches because this section is addressing establishment of batch 
traceability for the incoming material. 
 
7.2:  What is expected in terms of evaluation of suppliers of materials? 
 
Different phrases are used to describe the expectation for evaluation of suppliers of 
materials (ICH Q7, paragraphs 7.11, 7.12, 7.31), including traders, if any. 
 
ICH Q7, paragraph 7.12 states that all materials are purchased against a specification and 
from suppliers approved by the quality unit (ICH Q7, paragraph 7.31).  Prior to approval 
of any supplier, an evaluation should be conducted using a risk-based approach (ICH Q9, 
Appendix II.5; ICH Q7, paragraph 7.31).  More extensive evaluation is important for 
suppliers of those materials classified as critical (ICH Q7, paragraph 7.11). 
 
7.3:  What is meant by full analysis (ICH Q7, paragraph 7.31) on batches of raw 
materials to qualify a supplier? 
 
A full analysis should include all tests specified by the user of the raw material in the 
regulatory filing.  In cases where no filing is required, the full analysis should include 
tests in other formal written specifications issued by the user of the raw material (ICH 
Q7, paragraph 7.31).  A raw material suppliers Certificate of Analysis (CoA) may not 
necessarily align with the users specifications. 
 
7.4:  Are on-site audits required in the evaluation of suppliers? 
 
No.  An on-site audit is not required; however, an on-site audit could be a useful tool in 
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the evaluation of a supplier.  A risk assessment of the material or the service provided 
can be used to develop an audit strategy and manage the ongoing evaluation of suppliers 
(ICH Q7, paragraphs 7.11, 7.31). 
 
7.5:  Which tests are considered to be identity tests? 
 
For incoming production materials, identity tests and related methods should be used as 
described in the relevant sections of a pharmacopoeia monograph, in an approved 
regulatory filing, or in an in-house specification (including method/analytical procedure) 
(ICH Q7, paragraph 7.30).  When available, a discriminating test should be considered 
for identification testing.  The visual examination of a label or the material is not 
considered sufficient except in the cases described in ICH Q7, paragraph 7.32. 
 
7.6:  Is it possible to extend the expiry date or retest date of a raw material and what is the 
acceptable practice to determine how long it may be extended for? 
 
Manufacturing and labeling of raw materials for use by API manufacturers is outside the 
scope of ICH Q7.  For this reason, retest and expiry dates, as defined in ICH Q7, do not 
strictly apply to raw materials and may be used in a different manner by the raw material 
supplier.  Expiry date, as defined in the Glossary (section 20) of ICH Q7, applies 
specifically to the API. 
 
API manufacturers may re-evaluate (ICH Q7, section VII.E (7.5)) and then use a raw 
material after the expiry date or retest date, based on an appropriate scientific and risk-
based justification (e.g., understanding of material attributes, testing, and stability).  
Similar justifications may be used to extend the date by which the material should be re-
evaluated.  It is the responsibility of the API manufacturer to ensure the raw materials are 
appropriate for the intended use at the time of use. 
 
 
H.  Production and In-Process Controls (8) 
 
8.1:  Can yield ranges defined for the first batch differ from latter batches within a 
campaign? 
 
Yes.  Differing yield ranges (ICH Q7, paragraph 8.14) may be described and justified in 
the manufacturing procedure/master batch record explaining the ranges (ICH Q7, 
paragraph 6.41).  For example, the first batch in the series of production of batches of the 
same material (campaign) may leave residual material in the equipment, resulting in a 
low yield in the first batch and contributing to an increased yield in a subsequent batch of 
the campaign. 
 
8.2:  What is meant by appropriate specifications [of each batch] prior to blending (ICH 
Q7, paragraph 8.41)? 
 
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As a principle, no batches with out-of-specification (OOS) results should be blended 
(ICH Q7, paragraph 8.41).  Blending is defined in ICH Q7, paragraph 8.40.  Individual 
intermediate and/or API batches should demonstrate conformance with the filed 
specifications prior to blending.  In regions or circumstances where there are 
intermediates and/or APIs that do not require filing, conformance with the release 
specification should be demonstrated. 
 
 
I.  Packaging and Identification Labeling of APIs and Intermediates (9) 
 
  No Q&A. 
 
 
J.  Storage and Distribution (10) 
 
10.1:  What is meant by APIs and intermediates can be transferred under quarantine to 
another unit under the companys control... and is this applicable to contract 
manufacturers? 
 
ICH Q7, paragraph 10.20 states APIs and intermediates should only be released for 
distribution to third parties after they have been released by the quality unit(s).  APIs and 
intermediates can be transferred under quarantine to another unit under the companys 
control when authorized by the quality unit(s) and if appropriate controls and 
documentation are in place. 
 
The second sentence in ICH Q7, paragraph 10.20 describes transport situations that are 
not considered distribution.  It provides for physical movement (transfer but not release) 
of quarantined material to another unit.  This unit can be on the same site, be on a 
different site (within the same company), or be a contract manufacturer (see final 
paragraph below).   
 
The goal of transfer under quarantine is to allow transportation and testing in parallel.  
Material that is transferred under quarantine is not to be used for further processing until 
all testing and quality review is complete and the material is released by the quality unit 
as defined in ICH Q7, paragraph 2.22. 
 
This provision for transfer under quarantine is included in ICH Q7 for situations where a 
company is shipping APIs or intermediates from one unit to another and has both (1) the 
need to expedite the shipping and (2) the material management system in place to prevent 
use of the material before full release.  Examples of circumstances where transfer under 
quarantine may be necessary include extraordinary supply chain requirement(s) (e.g., 
short shelf-life), and materials with a lengthy time frame for required test(s) (e.g., some 
microbiological tests). 
 
With appropriate oversight as described in ICH Q10, section III.G (2.7), including a 
written agreement as described in ICH Q7, paragraph 16.12, and appropriate ongoing 
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controls, a contract manufacturer may be considered a unit under the companys 
control.  There is a joint responsibility for both parties to clearly justify and document 
the need to transfer the unreleased intermediate or API and to ensure appropriate control 
is maintained to prevent use before full release. 
 
 
K.  Laboratory Controls (11) 
 
11.1:  What is expected in terms of impurities for APIs extracted from herbal or animal tissue 
origin (ICH Q7, section XI.B (11.2))? 
 
In cases where the API itself is the extract from an herbal or animal tissue preparation, all 
constituents of this extract (concomitant constituents) might be considered to be part of 
the API.  Therefore, a production process-related impurity profile (except, for example, 
solvents used in the process) would generally not be expected.  However, for all APIs 
derived from herbal or animal sources, tests and limits for possible contaminants 
originating from these sources (e.g., pesticides, mycotoxins, viruses, herbicides, 
elemental impurities, and wrong species) should be established, based on a risk 
assessment. 
 
In cases where herbal or animal sources provide material that is further processed to yield 
a chemically defined API, all constituents other than the API are considered impurities.  
In this situation, the API manufacturer would be expected to establish an impurity profile 
as well as an API release specification that would include impurity limits. 
 
In any case, it is the API manufacturers responsibility to establish batch release 
specifications for APIs to ensure that they are safe and of high quality, consistent with 
appropriate regulatory requirements, applicable compendial specifications, and regional 
expectations (ICH Q7, paragraph 11.21; ICH Q9; ICH Q11). 
 
11.2:  In cases where an API test method is changed, which method should be used for 
stability studies already in progress? 
 
The company should decide and justify the decision of which method to use.  All test 
methods for stability studies (ICH Q1A) should be validated and demonstrated to be 
stability indicating prior to use (ICH Q7, paragraph 11.51). 
 
Any changes to stability test methods should be documented.  Applicability of the 
changes to the existing stability studies should be assessed and may require filing in 
accordance with regional requirements for postapproval changes (ICH Q7, paragraph 
13.11).   
 
11.3:  When is it acceptable for an API manufacturer to extend an API retest date (ICH Q7, 
section XI.F (11.6))? 
 
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The purpose of a retest date is to ensure that the API is still suitable for use.  The API 
manufacturer can extend the retest date of a specific batch based on good science and 
long-term stability results for that API and testing of the specific batch that has been 
stored according to the label conditions.  In some regions, regulatory authority approval 
of the retest date extension for the batch may be required. 
 
If an API manufacturer wants to change (i.e., extend) the retest date for future batches of 
an API, then the manufacturer should conduct stability testing sufficient to support the 
change, and include the new retest date and supporting data in a regulatory filing, as 
determined by regional requirements. 
 
11.4:  What is meant by completely distributed in ICH Q7, paragraph 11.71, which 
indicates reserve/retention samples should be retained for 3 years after the batch is 
completely distributed by the manufacturer? 
 
Completely distributed refers to the distribution of the entire batch of the API by the 
API manufacturer to the next party in the supply chain.  It should be noted that this 3-year 
retention of reserve/retention samples applies to all parties that physically process or 
repackage the API (ICH Q7, see Glossary (section 20) for definition of manufacture). 
 
The intent of ICH Q7 is that samples be retained for the period of time that the API could 
be in the market in order to investigate any problems and/or product complaints.  Based 
on accepted industry practice at the time ICH Q7 was written, it was not anticipated that a 
manufacturer would set a retest date longer than 3 years.  It is a basic GMP principle that 
reserve samples be retained for the entire period the material is available on the market.  
For example, if a company sets a retest date of 5 years and the API is completely 
distributed immediately after manufacturing, it is not intended that the reserve sample be 
destroyed before the 5-year retest date is reached. 
 
11.5:  Why does ICH Q7 permit the use of a packaging system for reserve/retention samples 
that is more protective than the marketed packaging system (ICH Q7, paragraph 
11.72)? 
 
Unlike stability samples, the purpose of the reserve/retention sample is not to represent 
the quality of the batch in the market place but to allow future evaluation of the quality of 
the original API batch (e.g., in evaluation of potential counterfeits).  Therefore, 
reserve/retention samples may be stored in packaging (and conditions) that better 
preserve the original state of the API. 
 
 
L.  Validation (12) 
 
12.1:  Is the lifecycle approach to process validation acceptable for APIs under ICH Q7? 
 
Yes, ICH Q7 does not preclude the lifecycle approach (ICH Q7, paragraph 12.10; ICH 
Q10; ICH Q11). 
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12.2:  Can the range of a process parameter be expanded based only on a process 
deviation(s)? 
 
No.  However, information from the investigation into a process deviation(s) can be used 
to support expanding the range of a process parameter.  Additional work and studies are 
normally needed to adequately demonstrate that the expanded range for the process 
parameter consistently produces API of the necessary quality (ICH Q7, paragraphs 2.16, 
12.11, 13.13). 
 
12.3:  Would additional process validation studies be needed to support a change in the 
source of an API starting material? 
 
Any change in the API starting material should be assessed for impact on the API 
manufacturing process and the resulting API quality (ICH Q7, paragraph 7.14).  
Additional validation studies of the API process may be warranted if the change in the 
API starting material is deemed significant.  In most cases, validation would be expected 
for a different source of the starting material unless otherwise justified (ICH Q7, 
paragraphs 12.1, 13.13). 
 
12.4:  Is a retrospective approach to validation still acceptable? 
 
Prospective validation is normally expected for processes introduced since the 
publication of ICH Q7.  The concept of retrospective validation remains acceptable as an 
exception for existing, well-established products prior to the implementation of ICH Q7 
(ICH Q7, paragraph 12.44). 
   
If regulatory discussions redefine a step as critical, which had previously been considered 
noncritical, a protocol describing retrospective analysis of data together with the 
commitment for concurrent or prospective validation may be an option. 
 
Regardless of the type of validation, the quality system should confirm the ongoing 
robustness of the process (e.g., product quality review). 
 
 
M.  Change Control (13) 
 
13.1:  Who is responsible for notifying the drug product manufacturer about relevant 
changes in API manufacturing? 
 
Each party in the supply chain is responsible for transferring information related to 
quality or regulatory changes to the next customer in the supply chain.  The intention is 
that the information is transferred along the supply chain to the drug product 
manufacturer in a timely manner (ICH Q7, paragraphs 13.17, 17.60). 
 
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N.  Rejection and Reuse of Materials (14) 
 
14.1:  Should rejected materials be stored under physical and secure segregation? 
 
ICH Q7 does not specify a need for physical and secure segregation.  Both paragraphs 
4.14 and 10.11 of ICH Q7 include the provision for the use of alternative control systems 
for storage of rejected material.  Whatever control system is used, the purpose should be 
to prevent the unintentional or unauthorized use of the rejected material (ICH Q7, 
paragraphs 7.44, 10.11, section XIV.A (14.1)). 
 
14.2:  Does the definition of expiry date in ICH Q7 preclude the rework or reprocess of an 
expired API? 
 
According to the definition, material should not be used after the expiry date.   The 
original intent of this definition in ICH Q7 was that expired API should not be used in 
drug product formulation.   
 
It may be acceptable to reprocess (ICH Q7, section XIV.B (14.2)) or rework (ICH Q7, 
section XIV.C (14.3)) the expired API where the API manufacturer has all related 
historical GMP documentation and additional stability data on the reworked or 
reprocessed API.   There may be registration/filing considerations that are beyond the 
scope of ICH Q7 in addition to the GMP considerations. 
 
14.3:  Is validation expected for the recovery of material from mother liquor? 
 
It depends.  Recovery of material(s) from mother liquor is a process, and the need for 
validation should be assessed as for any other process step (ICH Q7, paragraph 14.40).  
Recovery of material from mother liquor in any process step that must be controlled 
within predetermined criteria to ensure the API meets its specification is, by definition, a 
critical process step and should be validated.  For example, recovery of API from mother 
liquor would be considered a critical process step and should be validated (ICH Q7, 
paragraphs 12.11, 12.12, 14.41, 14.43  see Glossary (section 20) for definitions of 
critical, materials, mother liquor, and validation). 
 
 
O.  Complaints and Recalls (15) 
 
15.1:  Can quality defects of released APIs that are identified by another entity belonging to 
the same company be handled outside of the API manufacturers complaint 
procedure?   
 
Yes.  After the release of an API for further use, any identified quality defect should be 
investigated and addressed according to the API manufacturers complaint system or 
equivalent (i.e., nonconformance, deviations, etc.) (ICH Q7, paragraphs 15.10 to 15.12).  
Where equivalent systems are used, such defects should be categorized in a manner that 
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provides clear visibility that the defect was discovered after being released by the API 
site. 
 
15.2:  Must a quality related return, at the request of the API manufacturing site, from 
another site within the same company be recorded as a recall? 
 
No, provided that no portion of the batch left direct control of the company for sale or 
use.  The return must be clearly visible in the API sites quality system as a return 
triggered by the API manufacturing site so this fact is clear in quality system trend 
reporting and in the product quality review (ICH Q7, paragraphs 2.50, 15.13, 15.14). 
 
 
P.  Contract Manufacturers (Including Laboratories) (16) 
 
16.1:  Does ICH Q7 preclude a contract manufacturers independent quality unit from 
performing the main responsibilities as described in ICH Q7, paragraph 2.22? 
 
No.  The original intent of section II.B (2.2) was to distinguish the main responsibilities 
(e.g., batch record review, review of nonconformances and investigations, sampling, 
testing, release or rejection of intermediate or API) of the independent quality unit from 
other departments within a company.   
 
Contract manufacturers are expected to have an independent quality unit that meets the 
responsibilities defined in ICH Q7, section II.B (2.2) for all activities performed. 
 
Given the potential complexity of outsourcing contract manufacturing arrangements, 
GMP responsibilities should be clearly defined between both parties in detail in a written 
agreement (ICH Q7, paragraph 16.12).  However, the overall responsibility for API 
quality must not be delegated.6 
 
16.2:  Which outsourced activities are covered by ICH Q7? 
 
In the context of ICH Q7, contract manufacturing is the outsourced activity.  The term 
outsourced activities, as defined and described in ICH Q10, section III.G (2.7) and 
Glossary (section VI (5)), aligns with the description of contract manufacturer in ICH 
Q7, section XVI (16). 
 
ICH Q7 defines manufacture as all operations of receipt of materials, production, 
packaging, repackaging, labeling, relabeling, quality control, release, storage, and 
distribution of APIs and related controls.  
 
                                                 
6 See 21 U.S.C. 351 ("the term current good manufacturing practice includes the implementation of oversight and 
controls over the manufacturer of drugs to ensure quality, including managing the risk of and establishing the safety 
of raw materials, materials used in the manufacturing of drugs, and finished drug products.). 
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Related controls include any activities or services necessary to support production (e.g., 
maintenance, calibration).  ICH Q7 applies to any activities performed by the original 
manufacturer or the company that is performing the activity on behalf of the original 
manufacturer. 
 
16.3:  What is meant by where subcontracting is allowed (ICH Q7, paragraph 16.14)? 
 
Subcontracting as used in ICH Q7, paragraph 16.14 refers to the contract acceptor further 
contracting out a specific activity to another party (third party).  This should only be done 
when the written and approved contract, as described in ICH Q7, paragraph 16.12, 
specifically allows for such subcontracting.  Even when subcontracting is allowed, the 
original contract giver should approve specific subcontracting before it occurs as stated in 
ICH Q7, paragraph 16.14. 
 
 
Q.  Agents, Brokers, Traders, Distributors, Repackers, and Relabelers (17) 
 
17.1:  What does ICH Q7 mean by agents, brokers, traders, distributors, repackers, or 
relabelers? 
 
Regardless of what terms are used in different regions, ICH Q7 applies to all parties in 
the supply chain after the original API/intermediate manufacturer to the drug product 
manufacturer, in order to maintain the integrity, traceability, and transparency of the 
supply chain (ICH Q7, section XVII.A (17.1)). 
 
17.2:  Could a distributor of an API engage a contract manufacturer for production steps? 
 
No.  If a distributor (ICH Q7, section XVII.A (17.1)) of an API contracts out production 
steps (e.g., drying, micronization, milling, or sieving), then the distributor becomes a 
manufacturer and is subject to the entirety of ICH Q7. 
 
This provision includes, but is not limited to, appropriate written agreements as stated in 
ICH Q7, paragraph 16.12 defining responsibilities of each party.  In addition, these 
contracted production steps must be described in registration documents, applications, or 
equivalents per regional requirements.   
 
17.3:  Is it acceptable to replace the original label, which contains the information of the 
original manufacturer? 
 
Any relabeling operations are considered manufacturing by definition (ICH Q7, Glossary 
(section 20)) and should be performed under appropriate GMP controls (ICH Q7, 
paragraph 17.40).  With appropriate justification, manufacturers including repackagers 
and relabelers may replace the original label, so long as information about the original 
manufacturer is provided to the customers (ICH Q7, paragraph 17.61) and the traceability 
of the supply chain needs is maintained (ICH Q7, section XVII.B (17.2)).  The new label 
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should contain information as per ICH Q7, paragraphs 9.42, 9.43.  However, distributors 
should not remove an original label, but only add additional labels.   
 
17.4:  Who is considered to be the original manufacturer of the API for purposes of the 
Certificate of Analysis (CoA)? 
 
The CoA should document the original manufacturer to support traceability throughout 
the supply chain (ICH Q7, sections XI.D (11.4), XVII.F (17.6)). 
 
The original manufacturer would be the facility where the final purified API/intermediate 
is produced.  Further physical processing (e.g., drying, micronization, milling, sieving) of 
an API would not make the manufacturer performing such operations the original 
manufacturer.  All authentic CoAs, including those of the original manufacturer, should 
be available (ICH Q7, paragraph 17.20). 
 
 
R.  Specific Guidance for APIs Manufactured by Cell Culture/Fermentation (18) 
 
18.1:  Does ICH Q7 expect validation for viral removal/viral inactivation steps for 
biological/biotechnological products? 
 
Yes.  According to ICH Q7, paragraph 18.51, viral inactivation/removal steps are 
considered critical for some processes (e.g., cell lines of human and animal origin) (ICH 
Q5A, section 1).  Parameters for validation should be established in accordance with ICH 
Q5A, Q5D, and Q6B. 
 
Due to the potential for contamination (ICH Q5A, Section 2.B), viral inactivation studies 
should be performed in a separate and typically smaller laboratory facility (ICH Q11, 
section 7.2) and not in a clinical or commercial manufacturing facility. 
 
18.2:  Do ICH Q7, paragraph 18.14 and section XVIII.B (18.2) apply to classical 
fermentation and biotechnology? 
 
For classical fermentation, the text from ICH Q7, paragraph 18.14 ...this guide 
covers cell culture/fermentation from the point at which a vial of the cell bank is 
retrieved for use in manufacturing refers to classical fermentation and not to the 
biotechnology fermentation/cell culture.  Although the entire ICH Q7 guidance does 
not apply prior to the introduction of cells into the classical fermentation process, as 
shown in Table 1 of ICH Q7, section I.C (1.3), an appropriate level of GMP controls 
suitable for cell banks should be established.   
 
For biotechnology fermentation/cell culture, ICH Q7, section XVIII.B (18.2) on Cell 
Bank Maintenance and Record Keeping applies specifically to biotechnology 
fermentation/cell culture because ICH Q7 starts with the maintenance of the working cell 
bank (ICH Q7, section I.C (1.3), Table 1).  Although for biotech products the entire ICH 
Q7 guidance does not apply prior to the maintenance of the working cell bank, an 
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appropriate level of GMP controls suitable for cell banks should be established.  See also 
ICH Q5B, ICH Q5D. 
 
 
S.  APIs for Use in Clinical Trials (19) 
 
19.1:  Is it permitted to use the same equipment to manufacture materials to be used in 
preclinical and clinical trials? 
 
Yes, as long as operations are conducted under GMP conditions according to ICH Q7, 
including the establishment of effective cleaning methods, safe residue limits, and 
appropriate containment measures (ICH Q7, section XIX.C (19.3)). 
 
 
T.  Glossary (20) 
 
20.1:  Are the terms deviation and nonconformance synonyms? 
 
No.  However, they are related.  The term deviation, as used in ICH Q7, refers to a 
departure from an approved instruction or established standard that may or may not 
have an impact on the quality of the material.  Nonconformance refers to a status as a 
result of a failure of the material to meet specifications or appropriately established 
standards that has impacts on the quality of the material (ICH Q7, paragraphs 2.50, 14.30, 
Glossary (section 20)). 
 
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  Contains Nonbinding Recommendations 
 
ANNEX:  Q&As LINKED TO THE RESPECTIVE SECTIONS/PARAGRAPHS OF ICH Q7 
SICecHti oQn7s  of   1: Introduction  2: Quality Management  3: Personnel  4: Buildings and Facilities  5: Process Equipment  6: Documentation and Records  7: Materials Management  8: Production and In-Process Controls  9: Packaging and Identification Labeling of APIs and Intermediates  10: Storage and Distribution  11: Laboratory Controls  12: Validation  13: Change Control  14: Rejection and Re-use of Materials  15: Complaints and Recalls  16: Contract Manufacturers (including       Laboratories)  17: Agents, Brokers, Traders, Distributors, Repackers, and Relabelers  18: Specific Guidance for APIs manufactured by  Cell Culture/Fermentation  19: APIs for Use in Clinical Trials  20: Glossary  Other ICH Guidelines 
1. Introduction  Scope 
1  1.3                                        Q11  
Q5B 
Q5D 
2  1.2                                      20   
2. Quality Management 
1    2.13                                       
2    2.13                  11.12          16.10        20   
2.22  11.10 
3    2.22                                       
4    2.22  3.10      6.52          11.12                     
5    2.50                                      Q10 
6    2.50                                      Q9 
2.51 
3. Personnel 
1      3.12                                     
2    2.2  3.3                                    Q10 
4. Buildings and Facilities  Containment 
1        4.40                                  E2E 
4.41  Q9 
2        4.42                                  Q9 
5. Process Equipment  Cleaning 
1          5.23              12.76                   
12.7 
2          5.21      8.50        12.76                   
to 
5.25 
3          5.21              12.7                   
4          5.23      8.50        12.7                   
5                        12.72to                   
12.76 
6. Documents and Records 
1            6.13                      17         
2            6.51                               
3    2.21        6.5                               
2.3 
7. Materials Management 
1              7.20                             
7.24 
2              7.11                            Q9 
7.12 
7.31 
3              7.31                             
4              7.11                             
7.31 
5              7.30                             
7.32 
6              7.5                          20   
8. Production and In-Process Control 
1            6.41    8.14                           
2                8.40                           
8.41 
9. Packaging and Identification Labeling of APIs and Intermediates 
10. Storage and Distribution 
1    2.22                10.20            16.12          Q10 
 
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Contains Nonbinding Recommendations 
 
SICecHti oQn7s  of   1: Introduction  2: Quality Management  3: Personnel  4: Buildings and Facilities  5: Process Equipment  6: Documentation and Records  7: Materials Management  8: Production and In-Process Controls  9: Packaging and Identification Labeling of APIs and Intermediates  10: Storage and Distribution  11: Laboratory Controls  12: Validation  13: Change Control  14: Rejection and Re-use of Materials  15: Complaints and Recalls  16: Contract Manufacturers (including       Laboratories)  17: Agents, Brokers, Traders, Distributors, Repackers, and Relabelers  18: Specific Guidance for APIs manufactured by  Cell Culture/Fermentation  19: APIs for Use in Clinical Trials  20: Glossary  Other ICH Guidelines 
11. Laboratory Controls 
1                      11.2                    Q9   
11.21  Q11 
2                      11.51    13.11                Q1A 
3                      11.6                     
4                      11.71                  20   
5                      11.72                     
12. Validation 
1                        12.10                  Q10 
Q11 
2    2.16                    12.11  13.13                 
3              7.14          12.1  13.13                 
4                        12.44                   
13. Change Control 
1                          13.17        17.60         
14. Rejection and Re-use of Materials 
1        4.14      7.44      10.11        14.1               
2                            14.2               
14.3 
3                        12.11    14.40            20   
12.12  14.41 
14.43 
15. Complaints and Recalls 
1                              15.10             
to 
15.12 
2    2.50                          15.13             
15.14 
16. Contract Management (including Laboratories) 
1    2.2                            16.12           
2.22 
2                                16          Q10 
3                                16.12           
16.14 
17. Agents, Brokers, Traders, Distributors, Repackers, and Relabelers 
1                                  17.1         
2                                16.12  17.1         
3                  9.42                17.2      20   
9.43  17.40 
17.61 
4                      11.4            17.20         
17.6 
18. Specific Guidance for APIs Manufactured by Cell Culture/Fermentation 
1                                    18.51      Q5A 
Q5D 
Q6B 
Q11 
2    1.3                                18.14      Q5B 
18.2  Q5D 
19. APIs for Use in Clinical Trials 
1                                      19.3     
20. Glossary 
1    2.50                        14.30            20   
 
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REFERENCES 
 
Except where otherwise noted, the following documents are available on the FDA Drugs 
guidance web page at 
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/Guidances/default.htm.  
We update guidances periodically.  To make sure you have the most recent version of a 
guidance, check the FDA Drugs guidance web page. 
 
ICH E2E Pharmacovigilance Planning  
 
ICH Q1A(R2) Stability Testing of New Drug Substances and Products  
 
ICH Q5A Viral Safety Evaluation of Biotechnology Products Derived From Cell Lines of Human 
or Animal Origin  
 
ICH Q5B Quality of Biotechnological Products:  Analysis of the Expression Construct in Cells 
Used for the Production of r-DNA Derived Protein Products  
 
ICH Q5D Quality of Biotechnological Products:  Derivation and Characterization of Cell 
Substrates Used for Production of Biotechnological/Biological Products  
 
ICH Q6B Specifications:  Test Procedures and Acceptance Criteria for 
Biotechnological/Biological Products  
 
ICH Q7 Good Manufacturing Practice Guidance for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients  
 
ICH Q8(R2) Pharmaceutical Development   
  Part I: Pharmaceutical Development  
  Part II: Annex to Pharmaceutical Development 
 
ICH Q9 Quality Risk Management  
 
 
ICH Q10 Pharmaceutical Quality Systems 
 
ICH Q-IWG Training Material for ICH Q8/Q9/Q10 available on the Internet at 
http://www/ich/org 
 
ICH Q11 Development and Manufacturing of Drug Substances 
 
 
21