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Document 32021R0805
Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021/805 of 8 March 2021 amending Annex II to Regulation (EU) 2019/6 of the European Parliament and of the Council (Text with EEA relevance)
Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021/805 of 8 March 2021 amending Annex II to Regulation (EU) 2019/6 of the European Parliament and of the Council (Text with EEA relevance)
Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021/805 of 8 March 2021 amending Annex II to Regulation (EU) 2019/6 of the European Parliament and of the Council (Text with EEA relevance)
C/2021/1440
OJ L 180, 21.5.2021, p. 3–77
(BG, ES, CS, DA, DE, ET, EL, EN, FR, GA, HR, IT, LV, LT, HU, MT, NL, PL, PT, RO, SK, SL, FI, SV)
In force
21.5.2021 |
EN |
Official Journal of the European Union |
L 180/3 |
COMMISSION DELEGATED REGULATION (EU) 2021/805
of 8 March 2021
amending Annex II to Regulation (EU) 2019/6 of the European Parliament and of the Council
(Text with EEA relevance)
THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,
Having regard to Regulation (EU) 2019/6 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on veterinary medicinal products and repealing Directive 2001/82/EC (1), and in particular Article 146(2) thereof,
Whereas:
(1) |
It is appropriate to substantially update the requirements set out in Annex II to Regulation (EU) 2019/6, which took over the dossier requirements set out in Annex I to Directive 2001/82/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (2), as that Regulation did not update those dossier requirements at the time of repealing that Directive. The dossier requirements set out in Annex I to Directive 2001/82/EC had last been updated in 2009. Therefore, Annex II should be amended to take account of scientific progress and developments since 2009, including international guidance from the International Cooperation on Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Registration of Veterinary Medicinal Products (VICH), World Health Organisation (WHO) and the organisation of Economic cooperation and development (OECD) standards. |
(2) |
It is also appropriate to set out requirements for biological veterinary medicinal products and novel therapy veterinary medicinal products introduced as new categories of veterinary medicinal products by Regulation (EU) 2019/6. For those products, specific technical requirements to be presented when applying for a marketing authorisation should be defined. |
(3) |
Recognising that antimicrobial resistance to medicinal products is a growing health problem in the Union and worldwide, Regulation (EU) 2019/6 introduced specific legal provisions aimed at limiting the risk of development of antimicrobial resistance to medicinal products. It is therefore appropriate to introduce specific technical requirements for antimicrobial veterinary medicinal products. |
(4) |
This Regulation should apply from 28 January 2022 in accordance with Article 153(3) of Regulation (EU) 2019/6. |
(5) |
Regulation (EU) 2019/6 should therefore be amended accordingly, |
HAS ADOPTED THIS REGULATION:
Article 1
Annex II to Regulation (EU) 2019/6 is replaced by the text in the Annex to this Regulation.
Article 2
This Regulation shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.
It shall apply from 28 January 2022.
This Regulation shall be binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.
Done at Brussels, 8 March 2021.
For the Commission
The President
Ursula VON DER LEYEN
(2) Directive 2001/82/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 6 November 2001 on the Community code relating to veterinary medicinal products (OJ L 311, 28.11.2001, p. 1).
ANNEX
‘ANNEX II
REQUIREMENTS REFERRED TO IN ARTICLE 8(1), POINT (B)
Table of Contents
SECTION I |
GENERAL PRINCIPLES AND REQUIREMENTS | 11 |
I.1. |
General principles | 11 |
I.2. |
Dossier composition requirements | 11 |
I.2.1. |
Part 1: Summary of the dossier | 11 |
I.2.2. |
Part 2: Quality documentation (physicochemical, biological or microbiological information) | 12 |
I.2.3. |
Part 3: Safety documentation (safety and residues tests) | 13 |
I.2.4. |
Part 4: Efficacy documentation (pre-clinical studies and clinical trial(s)) | 13 |
I.2.5. |
Detailed requirements for different types of veterinary medicinal products or marketing authorisation dossiers | 14 |
SECTION II |
REQUIREMENTS FOR VETERINARY MEDICINAL PRODUCTS OTHER THAN BIOLOGICAL VETERINARY MEDICINAL PRODUCTS | 14 |
II.1. |
Part 1: Summary of the dossier | 14 |
II.2. |
Part 2: Quality documentation (physicochemical, biological or microbiological information) | 14 |
II.2A. |
Product description | 14 |
II.2A1. |
Qualitative and quantitative composition | 14 |
II.2A2. |
Product development | 16 |
II.2B. |
Description of the manufacturing method | 16 |
II.2C. |
Production and control of starting material | 16 |
II.2C1. |
Active substance(s) | 17 |
II.2C1.1. |
Active substances listed in pharmacopoeias | 18 |
II.2C1.2. |
Active substances not listed in a pharmacopoeia | 18 |
II.2C1.3. |
Physicochemical characteristics liable to affect bioavailability | 18 |
II.2C2. |
Excipients | 19 |
II.2C3. |
Packaging (container-closure systems) | 19 |
II.2C3.1. |
Active substance | 19 |
II.2C3.2. |
Finished product | 19 |
II.2C4. |
Substances of biological origin | 20 |
II.2D. |
Control tests carried out on isolated intermediates during the manufacturing process | 20 |
II.2E. |
Control tests on the finished product | 20 |
II.2E1. |
General characteristics of the finished product | 21 |
II.2E2. |
Identification and assay of active substance(s) | 21 |
II.2E3. |
Identification and assay of excipient components | 21 |
II.2E4. |
Microbiological controls | 21 |
II.2E5. |
Batch-to-batch consistency | 21 |
II.2E6. |
Other controls | 22 |
II.2F. |
Stability test | 22 |
II.2F1. |
Active substance(s) | 22 |
II.2F2. |
Finished product | 22 |
II.2G. |
Other information | 23 |
II.3 |
Part 3: Safety documentation (safety and residues tests) | 23 |
II.3A. |
Safety tests | 23 |
II.3A1. |
Precise identification of the product and of its active substance(s) | 24 |
II.3A2. |
Pharmacology | 24 |
II.3A2.1. |
Pharmacodynamics | 24 |
II.3A2.2. |
Pharmacokinetics | 25 |
II.3A3. |
Toxicology | 25 |
II.3A4. |
Other requirements | 26 |
II.3A.4.1. |
Special studies | 26 |
II.3A.4.2. |
Observations in humans | 26 |
II.3A.4.3. |
Development of resistance and related risk in humans | 27 |
II.3A5. |
User safety | 27 |
II.3A6. |
Environmental risk assessment | 27 |
II.3B. |
Residue tests | 28 |
II.3B1. |
Identification of the product | 28 |
II.3B2. |
Depletion of residues (metabolism and residue kinetics) | 28 |
II.3B3. |
Residue analytical method | 29 |
II.4. |
Part 4: Efficacy documentation (pre-clinical studies and clinical trial(s)) | 29 |
II.4A. |
Pre-clinical studies | 29 |
II.4A1. |
Pharmacology | 29 |
II.4A.1.1. |
Pharmacodynamics | 29 |
II.4A.1.2. |
Pharmacokinetics | 29 |
II.4A2. |
Development of resistance and related risk in animals | 30 |
II.4A3. |
Dose determination and confirmation | 30 |
II.4A4. |
Tolerance in the target animal species | 30 |
II.4B. |
Clinical trial(s) | 31 |
II.4B1. |
General principles | 31 |
II.4B2. |
Documentation | 31 |
II.4B2.1. |
Results of pre-clinical studies | 31 |
II.4B2.2. |
Results of clinical trials | 32 |
SECTION III |
REQUIREMENTS FOR BIOLOGICAL VETERINARY MEDICINAL PRODUCTS | 32 |
SECTION IIIa |
REQUIREMENTS FOR BIOLOGICAL VETERINARY MEDICINAL PRODUCTS OTHER THAN IMMUNOLOGICAL VETERINARY MEDICINAL PRODUCTS | 33 |
IIIa.1. |
Part 1: Summary of the dossier | 33 |
IIIa.2. |
Part 2: Quality documentation (physicochemical, biological or microbiological information) | 33 |
IIIa.2A. |
Product description | 33 |
IIIa.2A1. |
Qualitative and quantitative composition | 33 |
IIIa.2A2. |
Product development | 34 |
IIIa.2A3. |
Characterisation | 34 |
IIIa.2A3.1. |
Elucidation of structure and other characteristics | 34 |
IIIa.2A3.2. |
Impurities | 35 |
IIIa.2B. |
Description of the manufacturing method | 35 |
IIIa.2C. |
Production and control of starting materials | 35 |
IIIa.2C1. |
Starting materials listed in pharmacopoeias | 36 |
IIIa.2C2. |
Starting materials not listed in a pharmacopoeia | 36 |
IIIa.2C2.1. |
Starting materials of biological origin | 36 |
IIIa.2C2.2. |
Starting materials of non-biological origin | 37 |
IIIa.2D. |
Control tests during the manufacturing process | 37 |
IIIa.2E. |
Control tests on the finished product | 38 |
IIIa.2E1 |
Finish product specification | 38 |
IIIa.2E2 |
Method descriptions and validation of release tests | 38 |
IIIa.2E3. |
Reference standards or materials | 39 |
IIIa.2F. |
Batch-to-batch consistency | 39 |
IIIa.2F1. |
Active substance | 39 |
IIIa.2F2. |
Finished product | 39 |
IIIa.2G. |
Stability tests | 39 |
IIIa.2H. |
Other information | 40 |
IIIa.3. |
Part 3: Safety documentation (safety and residues tests) | 40 |
IIIa.3A. |
Safety tests | 41 |
IIIa.3A1. |
Precise identification of the product and of its active substance(s): | 41 |
IIIa.3A2. |
Pharmacology | 41 |
IIIa.3A2.1. |
Pharmacodynamics | 42 |
IIIa.3A2.2. |
Pharmacokinetics | 42 |
IIIa.3A3. |
Toxicology | 42 |
IIIa.3A3.1. |
Single-dose toxicity | 42 |
IIIa.3A3.2. |
Repeat-dose toxicity | 42 |
IIIa.3A3.3. |
Tolerance in the target species | 43 |
IIIa.3A3.4. |
Reproductive toxicity including developmental toxicity | 43 |
IIIa.3A3.5. |
Genotoxicity | 43 |
IIIa.3A3.6. |
Carcinogenicity | 43 |
IIIa.3A3.7. |
Exceptions | 43 |
IIIa.3A4. |
Other requirements | 44 |
IIIa.3A4.1. |
Special studies | 44 |
IIIa.3A4.2. |
Observations in humans | 44 |
IIIa.3A4.3. |
Development of resistance and related risk in humans | 44 |
IIIa.3A5. |
User safety | 45 |
IIIa.3A6. |
Environmental risk assessment | 45 |
IIIa.3A6.1. |
Environmental risk assessment of veterinary medicinal products not containing or consisting of genetically modified organisms | 45 |
IIIa.3A6.2. |
Environmental risk assessment for veterinary medicinal products containing or consisting of genetically modified organisms | 45 |
IIIa.3B. |
Residue tests | 46 |
IIIa.3B1. |
Identification of the product | 46 |
IIIa.3B2. |
Depletion of residues | 46 |
IIIa.3B3. |
Residue analytical method | 46 |
IIIa.4. |
Part 4: Efficacy documentation (pre-clinical studies and clinical trial(s)) | 47 |
IIIa.4A. |
Pre-clinical studies | 47 |
IIIa.4A1. |
Pharmacology | 47 |
IIIa.4A1.1. |
Pharmacodynamics | 47 |
IIIa.4A1.2. |
Pharmacokinetics | 47 |
IIIa.4A2. |
Development of resistance and related risk in animals | 48 |
IIIa.4A3. |
Dose determination and confirmation | 48 |
IIIa.4A4. |
Tolerance in the target animal species | 48 |
IIIa.4B. |
Clinical trials | 48 |
IIIa.4B1. |
General principles | 48 |
IIIa.4B2. |
Documentation | 49 |
IIIa.4B2.1. |
Clinical trials | 49 |
IIIa.4B2.2. |
Clinical trials | 49 |
SECTION IIIb |
REQUIREMENTS FOR IMMUNOLOGICAL VETERINARY MEDICINAL PRODUCTS | 50 |
IIIb.1. |
Part 1: Summary of the dossier | 50 |
IIIb.2. |
Part 2: Quality documentation (physicochemical, biological and microbiological information) | 50 |
IIIb.2.A. |
Product description | 50 |
IIIb.2A1. |
Qualitative and quantitative composition | 50 |
IIIb.2A2. |
Product development | 51 |
IIIb.2B. |
Description of the manufacturing method | 52 |
IIIb.2C. |
Production and control of starting materials | 52 |
IIIb.2C1. |
Starting materials listed in pharmacopoeias | 53 |
IIIb.2C2. |
Starting materials not listed in a pharmacopoeia | 53 |
IIIb.2C2.1. |
Starting materials of biological origin | 53 |
IIIb.2C2.2. |
Starting materials of non-biological origin | 54 |
IIIb.2D. |
Control tests during the manufacturing process | 54 |
IIIb.2E. |
Control tests on the finished product | 55 |
IIIb.2F. |
Batch-to-batch consistency | 56 |
IIIb.2G. |
Stability tests | 56 |
IIIb.2H. |
Other information | 57 |
IIIb.3. |
Part 3: Safety documentation (safety and residues tests) | 57 |
IIIb.3A. |
General requirements | 57 |
IIIb.3B. |
Pre-clinical studies | 58 |
IIIb.3C. |
Clinical trials | 60 |
IIIb.3D. |
Environmental risk assessment | 60 |
IIIb.3E. |
Assessment required for veterinary medicinal products containing or consisting of genetically modified organisms | 61 |
IIIb.3F. |
Residue tests to be included in the laboratory studies | 61 |
IIIb.4. |
Part 4: Efficacy documentation (pre-clinical studies and clinical trial(s)) | 61 |
IIIb.4A. |
General requirements | 61 |
IIIb.4B. |
Pre-clinical studies | 62 |
IIIb.4C. |
Clinical trials | 63 |
SECTION IV |
REQUIREMENTS FOR SPECIFIC MARKETING AUTHORISATION APPLICATIONS | 64 |
IV.1. |
Applications for generic veterinary medicinal products | 64 |
IV.2. |
Applications for hybrid veterinary medicinal products | 65 |
IV.3. |
Applications for combination veterinary medicinal products | 66 |
IV.4. |
Applications based on informed consent | 66 |
IV.5. |
Applications based on bibliographic data | 66 |
IV.6. |
Applications for limited markets | 68 |
IV.7. |
Applications in exceptional circumstances | 68 |
SECTION V |
REQUIREMENTS FOR MARKETING AUTHORISATION APPLICATIONS FOR PARTICULAR VETERINARY MEDICINAL PRODUCTS | 68 |
V.1. |
Novel therapies veterinary medicinal products | 68 |
V.1.1 |
General requirements | 68 |
V.1.2. |
Quality requirements | 69 |
V.1.3. |
Safety requirements | 70 |
V.1.4. |
Efficacy requirements | 70 |
V.1.5. |
Specific data requirements for particular types of novel therapy products | 70 |
V.1.5.1. |
Principles | 70 |
V.1.5.2. |
Gene therapy veterinary medicinal products | 70 |
V.1.5.3. |
Regenerative medicine, tissue engineering and cell therapy veterinary medicinal products | 71 |
V.1.5.4. |
Veterinary medicinal product specifically designed for phage therapy | 72 |
V.1.5.5. |
Veterinary medicinal product issued from nanotechnologies | 72 |
V.1.5.6. |
RNA antisense therapy and RNA interference therapy products | 73 |
V.2. |
Vaccine antigen master file | 74 |
V.3. |
Multi-strain dossier | 75 |
V.4. |
Vaccine platform technology | 75 |
V.5. |
Authorised homeopathic veterinary medicinal products | 76 |
SECTION I
GENERAL PRINCIPLES AND REQUIREMENTS
I.1. General principles
I.1.1. |
The documentation accompanying an application for a marketing authorisation pursuant to Articles 8, and 18 to 25 shall be presented in accordance with the requirements set out in this Annex and shall take into account the guidance documents published by the Commission and the requirements for electronic format published by the Agency. |
I.1.2. |
In assembling the dossier for application for a marketing authorisation, applicants shall also take into account the most up-to-date veterinary medicinal knowledge and the scientific guidelines relating to the quality, safety and efficacy of veterinary medicinal products published by the Agency. |
I.1.3. |
For veterinary medicinal products, all relevant monographs of the European Pharmacopoeia, including general monographs and the general chapters, are applicable for the appropriate parts of the dossier. |
I.1.4. |
The manufacturing processes for the active substance(s) and finished product shall comply with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP). |
I.1.5. |
All information which is relevant to the evaluation of the veterinary medicinal product concerned shall be included in the application, whether favourable or unfavourable to the product. In particular, all relevant details related to any incomplete or abandoned study or trial relating to the veterinary medicinal product shall be given. |
I.1.6. |
Pharmacological, toxicological, residue and pre-clinical studies shall be carried out in conformity with the provisions related to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) laid down in Directives 2004/10/EC (1) and 2004/9/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (2). |
I.1.7. |
All experiments on animals shall be conducted taking into account the principles laid down in Directive 2010/63/EU, notwithstanding the place of conduct of the experiments. |
I.1.8. |
The environmental risk assessment connected with the release of veterinary medicinal products containing or consisting of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) within the meaning of Article 2 of Directive 2001/18/EC shall be provided in the dossier as a separate document. The information shall be presented in accordance with the provisions of Directive 2001/18/EC, taking into account guidance published by the Commission. |
I.1.9. |
The applicant shall confirm in Part 1 of the dossier for an application for marketing authorisation that all submitted data relevant to the quality, safety and efficacy of the veterinary medicinal product, including data publicly available, are not subject to protection of technical documentation. |
I.2. Dossier composition requirements
Any dossier for an application for marketing authorisation for a veterinary medicinal product shall consist of the following parts:
I.2.1. Part 1: Summary of the dossier
Part 1 shall include administrative information as outlined in Annex I, as follows:
(a) |
Part 1A: points 1 to 4 and 6.1 to 6.4; |
(b) |
Part 1B: point 5; |
(c) |
Part 1C: point 6.5. |
With regard to Part 1B, point 5.1, in connection to Article 35(1), point (l), an application proposing classification of a veterinary medicinal product as "not subject to veterinary prescription" shall include a critical review of the product characteristics in order to justify the suitability of such classification taking into consideration target and non-target animal safety, public health as well as environmental safety, as outlined in the criteria given in Article 34(3), points (a) to (g).
Each critical expert report shall be prepared with regard to the state of scientific knowledge at the time of submission of the application. It shall contain an evaluation of the various tests and trials which constitute the marketing authorisation dossier, and shall address all aspects relevant to the assessment of the quality, safety and efficacy of the veterinary medicinal product. It shall give detailed results of the tests and trials submitted and precise bibliographic references. Copies of the bibliographic references cited shall be provided.
The critical expert reports shall be signed and dated by the author of those reports, and information about the author’s educational background, training and occupational experience shall be attached. The professional relationship of the author with the applicant shall be declared.
The critical expert reports and the appendices shall contain precise and clear cross-references to the information contained in the technical documentation.
Where Part 2 is presented using the format of the Common Technical Document (CTD), the quality overall summary (QOS) shall be used for the critical expert report on quality.
For Parts 3 and 4 the critical expert report shall also include a tabulated summary of all technical documentation and relevant data submitted.
I.2.2. Part 2: Quality documentation (physicochemical, biological or microbiological information)
(1) |
The pharmaceutical quality (physicochemical, biological or microbiological) data shall include for the active substance(s) and for the finished veterinary medicinal product information on the manufacturing process, the characterisation and properties, the quality control procedures and requirements, the stability as well as a description of the composition, the development and presentation of the veterinary medicinal product. |
(2) |
All monographs, including specific monographs, general monographs and general chapters of the European Pharmacopoeia are applicable. For immunological veterinary medicinal products, all monographs, including specific monographs, general monographs and general chapters of the European Pharmacopoeia are applicable, unless otherwise justified. In the absence of a European Pharmacopoeia monograph, the monograph of a Member State pharmacopoeia may be applied. In cases where a substance is described neither in the European Pharmacopoeia nor in the pharmacopoeia of a Member State, compliance with the monograph of a third country pharmacopoeia may be accepted if its suitability is demonstrated; in such cases, the applicant shall submit a copy of the monograph accompanied by a translation where appropriate. Data to demonstrate the ability of the monograph to adequately control the quality of the substance shall be presented. |
(3) |
If tests other than those mentioned in the pharmacopoeia are used, the use of such tests shall be justified by providing proof that the materials, if tested in accordance with the pharmacopoeia, would meet the quality requirements of the relevant pharmacopoeial monograph. |
(4) |
All test procedures for analysis and quality control shall take account of established guidance and requirements. The results of the validation studies shall be provided. All the test procedure(s) shall be described in sufficient detail so as to be reproducible in control tests, carried out at the request of the competent authority and in order to be properly assessed by the competent authority. Any special apparatus and equipment, which may be used shall be described in adequate manner, accompanied by a diagram, if relevant. The formulae of the laboratory reagents shall be supplemented, if necessary, by the method of preparation. In the case of test procedures included in the European Pharmacopoeia or the pharmacopoeia of a Member State, this description may be replaced by a detailed reference to the pharmacopoeia in question. |
(5) |
Where available, chemical and biological reference material of the European Pharmacopoeia shall be used. If other reference preparations and standards are used, they shall be identified and described in detail. |
(6) |
The pharmaceutical quality (physicochemical, biological or microbiological) data for the active substance and/or the finished product may be included in the dossier in Common Technical Document (CTD) format. |
(7) |
For biological veterinary medicinal products, including immunologicals, information on solvents needed for making the final product preparation shall be included in the dossier. A biological veterinary medicinal product is regarded as one product even when more than one solvent is required so that different preparations of the final product can be prepared, which may be for administration by different routes or methods of administration. Solvents supplied with biological veterinary medicinal products may be packed together with the active substance vials or separately. |
(8) |
In accordance with Directive 2010/63/EU and the European Convention for the Protection of Vertebrate Animals Used for Experimental and Other Scientific Purposes, tests shall be carried out in such a way as to use the minimum number of animals and to cause the least pain, suffering, distress or lasting harm. If available, an alternative in vitro test shall be used when this leads to replacement or reduction of animal use or reduction of suffering. |
I.2.3. Part 3: Safety documentation (safety and residues tests)
(1) |
The dossier on the safety studies shall include the following:
|
(2) |
The dossier shall include the following:
|
I.2.4. Part 4: Efficacy documentation (pre-clinical studies and clinical trial(s))
(1) |
The dossier on efficacy shall include all pre-clinical and clinical documentation, whether favourable or unfavourable to the veterinary medicinal products, in order to enable an objective overall assessment of the benefit/risk balance of the product. |
(2) |
The dossier on the efficacy studies shall include the following:
|
(3) |
The dossier shall include the following:
|
(4) |
The purpose of the trials described in this Part is to demonstrate the efficacy of the veterinary medicinal product. All claims made by the applicant with regard to the properties, effects and use of the product shall be fully supported by results of specific trials contained in the application for marketing authorisation. |
(5) |
All efficacy trials shall be conducted in accordance with a fully considered detailed protocol, which shall be recorded in writing prior to commencement of the trial. The welfare of the trial animals shall be subject to veterinary supervision and shall be taken fully into consideration during the elaboration of any trial protocol and throughout the conduct of the trial. |
(6) |
Clinical trials (field trials) shall be conducted in accordance with established principles of good clinical practice, unless otherwise justified. |
(7) |
Before the commencement of any field trial, the informed consent of the owner of the animals to be used in the trial shall be obtained and documented. In particular, the animal owner shall be informed in writing of the consequences of participation in the trial for the subsequent disposal of treated animals or for the taking of foodstuffs from treated animals. |
I.2.5. Detailed requirements for different types of veterinary medicinal products or marketing authorisation dossiers
(1) |
Detailed requirements for different types of veterinary medicinal products or specific types of marketing authorisation dossiers are outlined in the following Sections of this Annex:
|
SECTION II
REQUIREMENTS FOR VETERINARY MEDICINAL PRODUCTS OTHER THAN BIOLOGICAL VETERINARY MEDICINAL PRODUCTS
The following detailed requirements shall apply to veterinary medicinal products other than biological veterinary medicinal products, except where otherwise set out in Section IV.
II.1. Part 1: Summary of the dossier
Please refer to Section I.
II.2. Part 2: Quality documentation (physicochemical, biological or microbiological information)
II.2A. Product description
II.2A1. Qualitative and quantitative composition
(1) |
Qualitative composition of all the constituents of the medicinal product shall mean the designation or description of:
|
(2) |
The usual terminology to be used in describing the constituents of veterinary medicinal products means, notwithstanding the application of the other provisions of Article 8:
|
(3) |
In order to give the quantitative composition of all the active substances and excipients of the veterinary medicinal products, it is necessary, depending on the pharmaceutical form concerned, to specify the mass, or the number of units of biological activity, either per dosage-unit or per unit of mass or volume, of each active substance and excipient. |
(4) |
Units of biological activity shall be used for substances which cannot be defined chemically. Where an international unit of biological activity has been defined, this shall be used. Where no international unit has been defined, the units of biological activity shall be expressed in such a way as to provide unambiguous information on the activity of the substances by using where applicable the European Pharmacopoeia Units. |
(5) |
Quantitative composition shall be supplemented:
|
(6) |
Active substances present in the form of compounds or derivatives shall be described quantitatively by their total mass, and if necessary or relevant, by the mass of the active entity or entities of the molecule. |
(7) |
For veterinary medicinal products containing an active substance which is the subject of an application for marketing authorisation in the Union for the first time, the quantitative statement of an active substance which is a salt or hydrate shall be systematically expressed in terms of the mass of the active entity or entities in the molecule. All subsequently authorised veterinary medicinal products in the Member States shall have their quantitative composition stated in the same way for the same active substance. |
II.2A2. Product development
(1) |
An explanation shall be provided with regard to the choice of composition, constituents, packaging, the intended function of the excipients in the finished product and the method of manufacture including justification of the selection of the method and details of the sterilisation processes and/or aseptic procedures used of the finished product. This explanation shall be supported by scientific data on development pharmaceutics. Any overage, with justification thereof, shall be stated. The microbiological characteristics (microbiological purity and antimicrobial activity) and usage instructions shall be proven to be appropriate for the intended use of the veterinary medicinal product as specified in the marketing authorisation application dossier. |
(2) |
A study of the interaction between finished product and the primary packaging shall be submitted wherever the risk of such interaction is regarded as possible, especially where injectable preparations are concerned. |
(3) |
The proposed pack sizes shall be justified in relation to the proposed route of administration, the posology and the target species in particular for antimicrobial (active) substances. |
(4) |
When a dosing device is provided with the finished product, the accuracy of the doses(s) shall be demonstrated. |
(5) |
When an accompanying test is recommended to be used with the finished product (e.g. a diagnostic test), relevant information about the test shall be provided. |
(6) |
For veterinary medicinal products intended for incorporation into feed, information shall be provided on inclusion rates, instructions for incorporation, homogeneity in-feed and compatibility/suitable feed. |
II.2B. Description of the manufacturing method
(1) |
The description of the manufacturing method accompanying the application for marketing authorisation pursuant to Article 8 shall be drafted in such a way as to give an adequate synopsis of the nature of the operations employed. |
(2) |
For that purpose, it shall include at least:
|
II.2C. Production and control of starting material
(1) |
For the purposes of this point, “starting materials” shall mean active substances, excipients and packaging (immediate packaging with its closure system and, if applicable, outer packaging and any dosing device supplied with the veterinary medicinal product). |
(2) |
The dossier shall include the specifications and information on the tests to be conducted for quality control of all batches of starting materials. |
(3) |
The routine tests carried out on starting materials shall be carried out in the same manner as stated in the dossier. |
(4) |
Where a certificate of suitability has been issued by the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines and HealthCare for a starting material, active substance or excipient, that certificate constitutes the reference to the relevant monograph of the European Pharmacopoeia. |
(5) |
Where a certificate of suitability is referred to, the manufacturer shall give an assurance in writing to the applicant that the manufacturing process has not been modified since the granting of the certificate of suitability by the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines and HealthCare. In case the field “box of access” in the certificate is completed and signed, that requirement shall be deemed to be fulfilled without the need for additional assurance. |
(6) |
Certificates of analysis shall be presented for the starting materials in order to demonstrate compliance with the defined specification. |
II.2C1. Active substance(s)
(1) |
The required data shall be submitted in one of the three ways as detailed in points (2) to (4). |
(2) |
The following details shall be submitted:
|
(3) |
Active Substance Master File
For a non-biological active substance, the applicant may arrange for the information on active substance in point (2) to be supplied directly to the competent authorities by the manufacturer of the active substance as an Active Substance Master File. In this case, the manufacturer of the active substance shall provide the applicant with all the data (applicant’s part of the Active Substance Master File) which may be necessary for the latter to take responsibility for the veterinary medicinal product. A copy of the data provided by the active substance manufacturer to the applicant shall be included in the medicinal product dossier. The manufacturer of the active substance shall confirm in writing to the applicant that he shall ensure batch-to-batch consistency and not modify the manufacturing process or specifications without informing the applicant. |
(4) |
Certificate of suitability issued by the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines and HealthCare
The certificate of suitability and any additional data relevant to the dosage form not covered by the certificate of suitability shall be provided. |
II.2C1.1. Active substances listed in pharmacopoeias
(1) |
Active substances fulfilling the requirements of the European Pharmacopoeia or, in the absence of a European Pharmacopoeia monograph, the pharmacopoeia of one of the Member States shall be deemed to comply sufficiently with Article 8. In this case the description of the analytical methods and procedures shall be replaced in each relevant section by an appropriate reference to the pharmacopoeia in question. |
(2) |
In cases where a specification contained in a monograph of the European Pharmacopoeia or in the national pharmacopoeia of a Member State is insufficient to ensure the quality of the substance, the competent authorities may request more appropriate specifications from the applicant, including acceptance criteria for specific impurities with validated test procedures. |
(3) |
The competent authorities shall inform the authorities responsible for the pharmacopoeia in question. The marketing authorisation holder shall provide the authorities of that pharmacopoeia with the details of the alleged insufficiency and the additional specifications applied. |
II.2C1.2. Active substances not listed in a pharmacopoeia
(1) |
Active substances which are not listed in any pharmacopoeia shall be described in the form of a monograph under the following headings:
|
(2) |
Those data shall demonstrate that the proposed set of test procedures is sufficient to control the quality of the active substance from the defined source. |
II.2C1.3. Physicochemical characteristics liable to affect bioavailability
The following data concerning active substances shall be provided as part of the general description of the active substances if the bioavailability of the veterinary medicinal product depends on them:
(a) |
crystalline form and solubility; |
(b) |
particle size; |
(c) |
state of hydration; |
(d) |
oil/water coefficient of partition; |
(e) |
pK/pH values. |
Points (a) to (c) are not applicable to substances used solely in solution.
II.2C2. Excipients
(1) |
Excipients fulfilling the requirements of the European Pharmacopoeia or, in the absence of a European Pharmacopoeia monograph, the pharmacopoeia of one of the Member States shall be deemed to comply sufficiently with Article 8. In that case, the description of the analytical methods and procedures shall be replaced in each relevant section by an appropriate reference to the pharmacopoeia in question. Where appropriate, additional tests to control parameters such as particle size, sterility, and/or residual solvents, shall supplement the requirements of the monograph. |
(2) |
In the absence of a pharmacopoeial monograph a specification shall be proposed and justified. The requirements for specifications as set out in Part II.2C1.2(1) points (a) to (e) for the active substance shall be followed. The proposed methods and their supporting validation data shall be presented. |
(3) |
A declaration shall be submitted to confirm that colouring matters for inclusion in veterinary medicinal products satisfy the requirements of Directive 2009/35/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (3) except where the application for a marketing authorisation concerns certain veterinary medicinal products for topical use, such as medicated collars and ear tags. |
(4) |
A declaration shall be submitted to confirm that colouring matters used meet the purity criteria laid down in Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012 (4). |
(5) |
For novel excipients, that is to say excipient(s) used for the first time in the Union in a veterinary medicinal product or by a new route of administration, details of manufacture, characterisation, and controls, with cross references to support both clinical and non-clinical safety data shall be provided. For colouring matters, the declarations of compliance in points (3) and (4) shall be considered sufficient. |
II.2C3. Packaging (containers and closure systems)
II. 2C3.1. Active substance
(1) |
Information on the container and its closure system for the active substance including the identity of each immediate packaging material and their specifications shall be given. The level of information required shall be determined by the physical state (liquid, solid) of the active substance. |
(2) |
Where a certificate of suitability for the active substance from the proposed source is submitted and specifies a container and its closure system, the detailed information on these for the active substance from that source may be replaced by a reference to the valid certificate of suitability. |
(3) |
Where an Active Substance Master File from the proposed source is submitted and specifies a container and its closure system, the detailed information on these for the active substance from that source may be replaced by a reference to the Active Substance Master File. |
II. 2C3.2. Finished product
(1) |
Information on the container and its closure system and any device for the finished product including the identity of each immediate packaging material and their specifications shall be given. The level of information required shall be determined by the route of administration of the veterinary medicinal product and the physical state (liquid, solid) of the dosage form. |
(2) |
In the absence of a pharmacopoeial monograph, a specification shall be proposed and justified for the packaging material. |
(3) |
For packaging materials that are used for the first time in the Union and that are in contact with the product, information on their composition, manufacture and safety shall be presented. |
II.2C4. Substances of biological origin
(1) |
Information on the source, processing, characterisation and control of all materials of biological origin (human, animal, herbal or from microorganisms) used in the manufacture of the veterinary medicinal products shall be provided, including viral safety data, in accordance with relevant guidelines. |
(2) |
Documentation shall be supplied to demonstrate that materials originating from animal species relevant for the transmission of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE) comply with the Note for Guidance on minimising the risk of transmitting animal spongiform encephalopathy agents via human and veterinary medicinal products, as well as with the corresponding monograph of the European Pharmacopoeia. Certificates of Suitability issued by the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines and HealthCare, with reference to the relevant monograph of the European Pharmacopoeia, may be used to demonstrate compliance. |
II.2D. Control tests carried out on isolated intermediates during the manufacturing process
(1) |
For the purposes of this section, “isolated intermediate” shall mean partly processed material that may be stored for a defined amount of time and that shall undergo further processing step(s) before it becomes finished product. |
(2) |
A specification shall be set for each intermediate and the analytical methods shall be described and validated, if applicable. |
(3) |
Information on the primary packaging of the intermediate product shall be provided if different from that for the finished product. |
(4) |
A shelf life and storage conditions for the intermediate product shall be defined on the basis of the data resulting from stability studies. |
II.2E. Control tests on the finished product
(1) |
For the control of the finished product, a batch of a finished product comprises all the units of a pharmaceutical form which are made from the same initial quantity of material and have undergone the same series of manufacturing and/or sterilisation operations. In case of continuous manufacture, the batch size may be expressed in terms of a period of time or a quantity of product, and may be expressed as ranges. |
(2) |
The tests, which are carried out on the finished product shall be listed. A justification for the proposed specification shall be provided. The frequency of the tests which are not carried out routinely shall be stated and justified. Acceptance criteria for release shall be indicated. |
(3) |
The dossier shall include particulars relating to control tests on the finished product at release and their validation. They shall be submitted in accordance with the following requirements. |
(4) |
If test procedures and acceptance criteria other than those mentioned in the relevant monographs and general chapters of the European Pharmacopoeia, or failing this, in the pharmacopoeia of a Member State are used, those procedures and criteria shall be justified by providing proof that the finished product would, if tested in accordance with those monographs, meet the quality requirements of that pharmacopoeia for the pharmaceutical form concerned. |
II.2E1. General characteristics of the finished product
(1) |
Certain tests of the general characteristics of a product shall always be included among the tests on the finished product. Those tests shall, wherever applicable, relate to the control of average masses/volumes and maximum deviations, to mechanical, physical tests, visual appearance, physical characteristics such as, pH or particle size. For each of those characteristics, standards and acceptance criteria shall be specified by the applicant. |
(2) |
The conditions of the tests, where appropriate, the equipment/apparatus employed and the standards shall be described in sufficient detail whenever they are not given in the European Pharmacopoeia or the pharmacopoeia of a Member State; the same shall apply in cases where the methods prescribed by such pharmacopoeias are not applicable. |
II.2E2. Identification and assay of active substance(s)
(1) |
Identification and assay of the active substance(s) shall be carried out either in a representative sample from the production batch or in a number of dosage units analysed individually. |
(2) |
Unless there is appropriate justification, the maximum acceptable deviation in the active substance content of the finished product shall not exceed ± 5 % at the time of manufacture. |
(3) |
In certain cases of particularly complex mixtures, where assay of active substances which are very numerous or present in very low amounts would necessitate an intricate investigation difficult to carry out in respect of each production batch, the assay of one or more active substances in the finished product may be omitted, on the express condition that such assays are made at intermediate stages in the production process. That simplified technique may not be extended to the characterisation of the substances concerned. It shall be supplemented by a method of quantitative evaluation, enabling the competent authority to have the conformity of the medicinal product with its specification verified after it has been placed on the market. |
(4) |
An in vivo or in vitro biological assay shall be obligatory when physicochemical methods cannot provide adequate information on the quality of the product. Such an assay shall, whenever possible, include reference materials and statistical analysis allowing calculation of confidence limits. Where those tests cannot be carried out on the finished product, they may be performed at an intermediate stage, as late as possible in the manufacturing process. |
(5) |
The maximum acceptable levels of individual and total degradation products immediately following manufacture shall be indicated. The rationale for the inclusion or exclusion of degradation products in the specification shall be presented. |
II.2E3. Identification and assay of excipient components
An identification test and an upper and lower limit test shall be obligatory for each individual antimicrobial preservative and for any excipient that is liable to affect the bioavailability of the active substance, unless the bioavailability is guaranteed by other appropriate tests. An identification test and an upper limit test shall be obligatory for any antioxidant and for any excipient liable to adversely affect physiological functions, with a lower limit test also included for antioxidants at time of release.
II.2E4. Microbiological controls
Particulars of microbiological tests, such as sterility and bacterial endotoxins, shall be included in the analytical particulars wherever such tests shall be undertaken as a matter of routine in order to verify the quality of the product.
II.2E5. Batch-to-batch consistency
In order to ensure the quality of the product is consistent from batch to batch and to demonstrate conformity with the specification, batch data shall be provided giving the results for all tests performed in general on [3] batches manufactured at the proposed manufacturing site(s) according to the described production process.
II.2E6. Other controls
Any other test considered necessary to confirm the quality of the medicinal product shall be controlled.
II.2F. Stability test
II.2F1. Active substance(s)
(1) |
A retest period and storage conditions for the active substance shall be specified except when the manufacturer of the finished product fully retests the active substance immediately before its use in the manufacture of the finished product. |
(2) |
Stability data shall be presented to provide evidence on how the quality of an active substance varies with time under the influence of a variety of environmental factors and to support the defined retest period and storage conditions, if applicable. The type of stability studies conducted, protocols used, the analytical procedures used and their validation together with the detailed results shall be presented. |
(3) |
Where a certificate of suitability for the active substance from the proposed source is available and specifies a retest period and storage conditions, stability data for the active substance from that source may be replaced by a reference to the valid certificate of suitability. |
(4) |
Where an Active Substance Master File from the proposed source is submitted and specifies stability data, the detailed information on the stability for the active substance from that source may be replaced by a reference to the Active Substance Master File. |
II.2F2. Finished product
(1) |
A description shall be given of the investigations by which the shelf life, the recommended storage conditions and the specifications at the end of the shelf life proposed by the applicant have been determined. |
(2) |
The type of stability studies conducted, protocols used, the analytical procedures used and their validation together with the detailed results shall be presented. |
(3) |
Where a finished product requires reconstitution or dilution prior to administration, details of the proposed shelf life and specification for the reconstituted/diluted product are required, supported by relevant stability data. |
(4) |
In the case of multi-dose containers, where relevant, stability data shall be presented to justify a shelf life for the product after it has been broached or opened for the first time and an in-use specification shall be defined. |
(5) |
Where a finished product is liable to give rise to degradation products, the applicant shall declare those products and indicate the identification methods and test procedures used. |
(6) |
Where the stability data show that the assay of the active substance declines on storage, the description of the control tests on the finished product shall include, where appropriate, the chemical and, if necessary, the toxico-pharmacological investigation of the changes that this substance has undergone, and possibly the characterisation and/or assay of the degradation products. |
(7) |
The maximum acceptable level of individual and total degradation products at the end of shelf life shall be indicated and justified. |
(8) |
On the basis of the stability test results, the tests and their acceptance criteria, that are carried out on the finished product over the course of the shelf life shall be listed and justified. |
(9) |
The conclusions shall contain the results of analyses, justifying the proposed shelf life and if appropriate, the in-use shelf life, under the recommended storage conditions. |
(10) |
Additionally, for veterinary medicinal products intended for incorporation into feed, information shall be provided on the stability and the proposed shelf life after incorporation into feed. A specification for the medicated feed manufactured using those veterinary medicinal products in accordance with the recommended instructions for use shall also be provided. |
II.2G. Other information
Information relating to the quality of the veterinary medicinal product not covered elsewhere in this Part may be included in the dossier under this point.
II.3 Part 3: Safety documentation (safety and residues tests)
(1) |
Each study report shall include:
|
(2) |
Published studies may be accepted if they contain a sufficient amount of data and sufficient details to allow an independent assessment. The experimental techniques shall be described in such detail as to allow them to be reproduced, and the investigator shall establish their validity. Summaries of studies for which detailed reports are not available shall not be accepted as valid documentation. When the substance has been previously evaluated for the establishment of maximum residues limit (“MRL”) to address certain safety requirements reference may be made to the European public MRL assessment reports (“EPMARs”). Where reference to EPMAR is made there is no need to submit studies already evaluated as part of the MRL evaluation; only new studies not available for the MRL assessment shall be provided. If the route of exposure (for example, for the user) is not identical to the route used in accordance with Commission Regulation (EU) 2018/782 (5), new studies might be necessary. |
II.3A. Safety tests
(1) |
The safety documentation shall be adequate for assessment of:
|
(2) |
In some cases it may be necessary to test the metabolites of the parent compound where these represent the residues of concern. |
(3) |
An excipient used for the first time in a veterinary medicinal product or by a new route of administration shall be treated in the same way as an active substance. |
II.3A1. Precise identification of the product and of its active substance(s)
(a) |
International Non-proprietary Name (INN); |
(b) |
International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry Name (IUPAC); |
(c) |
Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) number; |
(d) |
therapeutic, pharmacological and chemical classification; |
(e) |
synonyms and abbreviations; |
(f) |
structural formula; |
(g) |
molecular formula, |
(h) |
molecular weight; |
(i) |
degree of purity; |
(j) |
qualitative and quantitative composition of impurities; |
(k) |
description of physical properties:
|
(l) |
formulation of the product. |
II.3A2. Pharmacology
(1) |
Pharmacological studies are of fundamental importance in clarifying the mechanisms by which the veterinary medicinal product produces its therapeutic effects, and therefore pharmacological studies conducted in experimental and target species of animal shall be included. Cross reference may be made, if applicable, to studies submitted in Part 4 of the dossier. |
(2) |
Where a veterinary medicinal product produces pharmacological effects in the absence of a toxic response, or at doses lower than those required to elicit toxicity, those pharmacological effects shall be taken into account during the evaluation of the safety for the user of the veterinary medicinal product. |
(3) |
The safety documentation shall always be preceded by details of pharmacological investigations undertaken in laboratory animals and all relevant information observed during clinical studies in the target animal. |
II.3A2.1. Pharmacodynamics
Information on the mechanism of action of the active substance(s) shall be provided, together with information on primary and secondary pharmacodynamic effects in order to assist in the understanding of any adverse effects in the animal studies. Detailed reporting of pharmacodynamic properties relating to the therapeutic effect shall be reported in Part 4A of the dossier.
II.3A2.2. Pharmacokinetics
Data on the fate of the active substance and its metabolites in laboratory animals shall be provided, covering absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME). The data shall be related to the dose/effect findings in the pharmacological and toxicological studies, to determine adequate exposure.
II.3A3. Toxicology
(1) |
The documentation on toxicology shall follow the guidance published by the Agency on the general approach to testing and guidance on particular studies. Generally, toxicity studies shall be conducted with the active substance(s), not with the formulated product, unless specifically required otherwise. |
(2) |
Animal studies shall be conducted in established strains of laboratory animals for which (preferably) historical data are available. |
(3) |
Single-dose toxicity
Single-dose toxicity studies may be used to predict:
Single-dose toxicity studies shall reveal the acute toxic effects of the substance and the time course for their onset and remission. The studies to be carried out shall be selected with a view to providing information on user safety, for example, if substantial exposure by inhalation or dermal contact of the user of the veterinary medicinal product is anticipated, those routes of exposure shall be studied. |
(4) |
Repeat-dose toxicity
Repeat-dose toxicity tests are intended to reveal any physiological and/or pathological changes induced by repeated administration of the active substance or combination of active substances under examination, and to determine how those changes are related to dosage. A repeat-dose toxicity study in one species of experimental animal shall normally be sufficient. This study may be replaced by a study conducted in the target animal. The frequency and route of administration, and the duration of the study shall be chosen having regard to the proposed conditions of clinical use and/or user exposure. The applicant shall give his reasons for the extent and duration of the studies and the dosages chosen. |
(5) |
Tolerance in the target species
A summary shall be provided of any signs of intolerance which have been observed during studies conducted, usually with the final formulation, in the target species in accordance with the requirements of Part II.4A4 (Tolerance in the target animal species). The studies concerned, the dosages at which the intolerance occurred, and the species and breeds concerned shall be identified. Details of any unexpected physiological changes shall also be provided. The full reports of those studies shall be included in Part 4 of the dossier. |
(6) |
Reproductive toxicity including developmental toxicity
Study of the effects on reproduction For products intended for use in breeding animals, reproductive safety studies in line with VICH GL43 shall be provided. Reproduction toxicity studies in laboratory animals are not expected for the evaluation of effects on the user. |
(7) |
Study of developmental toxicity
For the evaluation of effects in the target animal species, developmental toxicity studies are not required for products intended only for use in non-breeding animals. For other products a study of developmental toxicity shall be performed in at least one species, which may be the target species. If the study is conducted in the target species, a summary shall be provided here, and the full report of the study shall be included in Part 4 of the dossier. For the evaluation of user safety, standard developmental toxicity testing in accordance with standard tests based on established guidance (including VICH GL32 and OECD tests) shall be performed in all cases where significant user exposure may be expected. |
(8) |
Genotoxicity
Tests for genotoxic potential shall be performed to reveal changes which a substance may cause in the genetic material of cells. Any substance intended to be included in a veterinary medicinal product for the first time shall be assessed for genotoxic properties. A standard battery of genotoxicity tests in accordance with standard tests based on established guidance (including VICH GL23 and OECD tests) shall be carried out on the active substance(s). |
(9) |
Carcinogenicity
The decision on whether carcinogenicity testing is required shall take into account the results of genotoxicity tests, structure-activity relationships and the findings in repeat dose toxicity tests that may demonstrate the potential for hyper-/neo-plastic changes. Any known species specificity of the mechanism of toxicity shall be considered, as well as any differences in metabolism between the test species, target animal species, and human beings. Carcinogenicity testing shall be conducted according to standard tests based on established guidance (including VICH GL28 and OECD tests). |
(10) |
Exceptions
Where a veterinary medicinal product is intended for topical use, systemic absorption shall be investigated in the target animal species. If it is proved that systemic absorption is negligible, the repeated dose toxicity tests, the tests for reproductive and developmental toxicity and the carcinogenicity tests may be omitted, unless:
|
II.3A4. Other requirements
II.3A.4.1. Special studies
For particular groups of substances or if the effects observed during repeated dose studies in animals include changes indicative of, for example, immunotoxicity, neurotoxicity or endocrine dysfunction, further testing shall be required, for example, sensitisation studies or delayed neurotoxicity tests. Depending on the nature of the product, it may be necessary to conduct additional studies to assess the underlying mechanism of the toxic effect or the irritation potential.
For products for which there may be exposure to skin and eyes, irritation and sensitisation studies shall be provided. Those studies shall be conducted with the final formulation.
The state of latest scientific knowledge and established guidance shall be taken into account when designing such studies and evaluating their results.
II.3A.4.2. Observations in humans
Information shall be provided showing whether the pharmacologically active substances of the veterinary medicinal product are used as medicinal products in human therapy. If that is the case, a compilation shall be made of all the effects observed (including adverse reactions) in humans and of their cause, to the extent that they may be important for the assessment of the safety of the veterinary medicinal product, where appropriate including results from published studies; where constituents of the veterinary medicinal products are themselves not used or are no longer used as medicinal products in human therapy, the reasons shall be stated, if publicly available.
II.3A.4.3. Development of resistance and related risk in humans
The data requirements described in this point are related to antibacterial substances and may not be fully applicable to other types of antimicrobial (namely antivirals, antifungals and antiprotozoals) although, in principle, the requirements may be followed, where applicable.
Data on the potential emergence of resistant bacteria or resistance determinants of relevance for human health and which are associated with the use of veterinary medicinal products are necessary for those products. The mechanism of the development and selection of such resistance is particularly important in this regard. Where necessary, measures to limit resistance development from the intended use of the veterinary medicinal product shall be proposed by the applicant.
Resistance data relevant for clinical use of the product in target animals shall be addressed in accordance with Part II.4A2. Where relevant, cross reference shall be made to the data set out in Part II.4A2.
(1) |
For food-producing animals the risk assessment shall address:
|
(2) |
For companion animals consideration of risk to human or public health shall address:
|
(3) |
Resistance in the environment shall be addressed. |
II.3A5. User safety
This section shall include an assessment of the effects found in Part II.3A to II.3A4 and relate this to the type and extent of human exposure to the product with a view to formulating appropriate user warnings and other risk management measures.
User safety shall be addressed in accordance with Committee for Medicinal Products for Veterinary Use (CVMP) guidelines.
II.3A6. Environmental risk assessment
(1) |
An environmental risk assessment shall be performed to assess the potential harmful effects that the use of the veterinary medicinal product may cause to the environment and to identify the risk of such effects. The assessment shall also identify any precautionary measures which may be necessary to reduce such risk. |
(2) |
This assessment consists of two phases. The first phase of the assessment shall always be performed. The details of the assessment shall be provided in accordance with guidance published by the Agency. It shall indicate the potential exposure of the environment to the product and the level of risk associated with any such exposure, in particular taking into account the following items:
|
(3) |
In the second phase, further specific investigation of the fate and effects of the product on particular ecosystems shall be conducted, in accordance with guidance published by the Agency. The extent of exposure of the product to the environment, and the available information about the physical/chemical, pharmacological and/or toxicological properties of the substance(s) concerned, including metabolites in case of an identified risk, which has been obtained during the conduct of the other tests and trials required by this Regulation, shall be taken into consideration. |
(4) |
For products intended for food producing species, persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) or very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB) substances shall be classified according to the criteria in Annex XIII to Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council (6) (REACH Regulation) and assessed according to the guidance for PBT and vPvB assessment of substances in veterinary medicines published by the Agency. |
II.3B. Residue tests
(1) |
For the purposes of this point, the definitions of Regulation (EC) No 470/2009 shall apply. |
(2) |
The purpose of studying the depletion of residues from the edible tissues or from eggs, milk and honey (wax, if appropriate) derived from treated animals is to determine under what conditions and to what extent residues may persist in foodstuffs produced from those animals. In addition, the studies shall enable the determination of a withdrawal period. |
(3) |
In the case of veterinary medicinal products intended for use in food-producing animals, the residue documentation shall show:
|
II.3B1. Identification of the product
An identification of the veterinary medicinal product(s) used in the testing shall be provided, including:
(a) |
composition; |
(b) |
the physical and chemical (potency and purity) test results for the relevant batch(es); |
(c) |
batch identification. |
II.3B2. Depletion of residues (metabolism and residue kinetics)
(1) |
The purpose of these studies, which measure the rate at which residues deplete in the target animal after the last administration of the veterinary medicinal product, is to permit the determination of withdrawal periods necessary to ensure that no residues which may constitute a hazard for consumers are present in foodstuffs obtained from treated animals. |
(2) |
The current status of the MRL for the components of the veterinary medicinal product in the relevant target species shall be reported. |
(3) |
The levels of residues present shall be determined at a sufficient number of time points after the test animals have received the final dose of the veterinary medicinal product. The studies in mammals and birds shall be performed according to VICH GL48 and other relevant guidelines. Residue studies in honey shall be performed according to VICH GL56 and depletion studies in aquatic species according to VICH GL57. |
(4) |
Based on the evaluation, the rationale for the proposed withdrawal period shall be addressed. |
II.3B3. Residue analytical method
The residue depletion study (studies), the analytical method(s) and its (their) validation shall be performed in accordance with VICH GL49.
The analytical method shall have regard to the state of scientific and technical knowledge at the time the application is submitted.
II.4. Part 4: Efficacy documentation (pre-clinical studies and clinical trial(s))
II.4A. Pre-clinical studies
Pre-clinical studies aim to investigate the target animal safety and efficacy of the product and are required to establish the pharmacological activity, pharmacokinetic properties, dose and dosing interval, resistance (if applicable) and the target animal tolerance of the product.
II.4A1. Pharmacology
II.4A.1.1. Pharmacodynamics
(1) |
The pharmacodynamic effects of the active substance(s) included in the veterinary medicinal product shall be characterised. |
(2) |
The mode of action and the pharmacological effects on which the recommended application is based in practice shall be adequately described, including secondary effects (if any). In general, the effects on the main body functions shall be investigated. The results shall be expressed in quantitative terms (for example, using dose-effect curves and/or time-effect curves) and, wherever possible, in comparison with a substance the activity of which is well known (where the activity is claimed to be higher in comparison to the substance the activity of which is well known, the difference shall be demonstrated and shown to be statistically significant). |
(3) |
Any effect of the other characteristics of the products (such as the route of administration or formulation) on the pharmacological activity of the active substance shall be investigated. |
(4) |
The experimental techniques, unless they are standard procedures, shall be described in such detail as to allow them to be reproduced, and their validity to be established. The experimental results shall be set out clearly and the outcome of any statistical comparisons presented. |
(5) |
Unless good reasons are given to the contrary, any quantitative modification of responses resulting from repeated administration of the substance shall also be investigated. |
II.4A.1.2. Pharmacokinetics
(1) |
Basic pharmacokinetic data on the active substance are required in the context of assessment of the target animal safety and efficacy of the veterinary medicinal product in the target species, in particular if this concerns a new substance or formulation. |
(2) |
The objectives of pharmacokinetic studies in the target animal species may be divided into four main areas:
|
(3) |
In the target animal species, pharmacokinetic studies are, as a rule, necessary as a complement to the pharmacodynamic studies to support the establishment of safe and effective dosage regimens (route and site of administration, dose, dosing interval, number of administrations, etc.). Additional pharmacokinetic studies may be required to establish dosage regimens according to certain population variables. |
(4) |
Where pharmacokinetic studies have been submitted under Part 3 of the dossier, cross reference to such studies may be made. For fixed combinations, please refer to Section IV. |
II.4A2. Development of resistance and related risk in animals
(1) |
For relevant veterinary medicinal products (for example, antimicrobials, antiparasitics), information on current resistance (if applicable) and on the potential emergence of resistance of clinical relevance for the claimed indication in the target animal species shall be provided. Where possible, information on the resistance mechanism(s), the molecular genetic basis of resistance, and the rate of transfer of resistance determinants shall be presented. Whenever relevant, information on co-resistance and cross-resistance shall be presented. Measures to limit resistance development in organisms of clinical relevance for the intended use of the veterinary medicinal product shall be proposed by the applicant. |
(2) |
Resistance relevant for risks to humans shall be addressed in accordance with Part II.3A4, point (3). Where relevant, cross-reference shall be made to data set out in Part II.3A4, point (3). |
II.4A3. Dose determination and confirmation
Appropriate data shall be provided to justify the proposed dose, dosing interval, duration of treatment and any re-treatment interval.
For studies conducted under field conditions, relevant information shall be provided as outlined in Part II.4B, unless duly justified.
II.4A4. Tolerance in the target animal species
The local and systemic tolerance of the veterinary medicinal product shall be investigated in the target animal species. The purpose of target animal safety studies is to characterise signs of intolerance and to establish an adequate margin of safety using the recommended route(s) of administration. This may be achieved by increasing the dose and/or the duration of treatment. The study report(s) shall contain details of all expected pharmacological effects and all adverse reactions. The conduct of target animal safety studies shall be in accordance with the international guidelines of the International Cooperation on Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Registration of Veterinary Medicinal Products (“VICH”) and relevant guideline(s) published by the Agency.. Other pre-clinical studies, including studies provided in part 3, and clinical trials, along with relevant information from the published literature, may also provide information on safety in the target species. Studies on developmental toxicity performed in the target animal species shall be included here, and a summary shall be provided in Part 3 of the dossier.
II.4B. Clinical trial(s)
II.4B1. General principles
(1) |
Clinical trials shall be designed, carried out and reported taking due account of the international guidelines on good clinical practice of the VICH and relevant guidance published by the Agency. Data stemming from clinical trials conducted outside the Union may be taken into consideration for the assessment of an application for a marketing authorisation only if the data are sufficiently representative for the Union situation. |
(2) |
Experimental data such as exploratory/pilot trials, or results from non-experimental approaches shall be confirmed by clinical trials, unless otherwise justified. |
(3) |
The purpose of clinical trials is to examine under field conditions the target animal safety and efficacy of a veterinary medicinal product under normal conditions of animal husbandry and/or as part of good veterinary practice. They shall demonstrate the effect of the veterinary medicinal product after administration to the intended target species using the proposed dosage regimen and the proposed route(s) of administration. The trial design shall aim to support the indications and to take into account any contra-indications according to species, age, breed and sex, directions for use of the veterinary medicinal product as well as any adverse reactions which it may have. |
(4) |
All veterinary clinical trials shall be conducted in accordance with a detailed trial protocol. |
(5) |
For formulations intended for use in veterinary clinical trials in the Union, the words “for veterinary clinical trial use only” shall appear prominently and indelibly on the labelling. |
(6) |
Unless otherwise justified, clinical trials shall be carried out with control animals (controlled clinical trials). The efficacy results obtained with the new product shall be compared with those from the target animal species that have received a veterinary medicinal product authorised in the Union that has demonstrated an acceptable level of efficacy and been approved for the proposed indication(s) for use in the same target animal species, or a placebo or no treatment. All the results obtained, whether positive or negative, shall be reported. |
(7) |
Established statistical principles in accordance with the relevant guidance published by the Agency shall be used in protocol design, analysis and evaluation of clinical trials, unless otherwise justified. |
II.4B2. Documentation
II.4B2.1. Results of pre-clinical studies
Wherever possible, particulars shall be given of the results of:
(a) |
tests demonstrating pharmacological activity, including tests demonstrating the pharmacodynamic mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effect and tests demonstrating the main pharmacokinetic profile; |
(b) |
tests and investigations on resistance, if applicable; |
(c) |
tests demonstrating target animal safety; |
(d) |
tests to determine and confirm the dose (including dose interval, duration of treatment and any re-treatment interval). |
Where unexpected results occur during the course of the tests, those results shall be described in detail. Omission of any of those data shall be justified. The following particulars shall be provided in all pre-clinical study reports:
(a) |
a summary; |
(b) |
a study protocol; |
(c) |
a detailed description of the objectives, design and conduct to include methods, apparatus and materials used, details such as species, age, weight, sex, number, breed or strain of animals, identification of animals, dose, route and schedule of administration; |
(d) |
a statistical analysis of the results, if applicable; |
(e) |
an objective discussion of the results obtained, leading to conclusions on the efficacy and target animal safety of the veterinary medicinal product. |
II.4B2.2. Results of clinical trials
All the particulars shall be supplied by each of the investigators on individual record sheets in the case of individual treatment and collective record sheets in the case of collective treatment.
The marketing authorisation holder shall make all necessary arrangements to ensure that the original documents, which formed the basis of the data supplied, are kept for at least five years after the veterinary medicinal product is no longer authorised.
In respect of each clinical trial, the clinical observations shall be summarised in a synopsis of the trials and the results thereof, indicating in particular:
(a) |
the number of control and test animals treated either individually or collectively, with a breakdown according to species, breed or strain, age and sex; |
(b) |
the number of animals withdrawn prematurely from the trials and the reasons for such withdrawal; |
(c) |
in the case of control animals, whether they have:
|
(d) |
the frequency of observed adverse reactions; |
(e) |
observations as to the effect on animal performance, if appropriate; |
(f) |
details concerning test animals which may be at increased risk owing to their age, their mode of rearing or feeding, or the purpose for which they are intended, or animals the physiological or pathological condition of which requires special consideration; |
(g) |
a statistical evaluation of the results. |
The main investigator shall draw general conclusions on the efficacy and target animal safety of the veterinary medicinal product under the proposed conditions of use and in particular any information relating to indications and contraindications, dosage and average duration of treatment and, where appropriate, any interactions observed with other veterinary medicinal products or feed additives as well as any special precautions to be taken during treatment and the clinical signs of overdose, when observed.
SECTION III
REQUIREMENTS FOR BIOLOGICAL VETERINARY MEDICINAL PRODUCTS
Without prejudice to specific requirements laid down in Union legislation for the control and eradication of specific infectious animal diseases, the following requirements shall apply to biological veterinary medicinal products, except when the products are intended for use in some species or with specific indications as defined in Sections IV and V and in relevant guidelines.
SECTION IIIa
REQUIREMENTS FOR BIOLOGICAL VETERINARY MEDICINAL PRODUCTS OTHER THAN IMMUNOLOGICAL VETERINARY MEDICINAL PRODUCTS
The following requirements shall apply to biological veterinary medicinal products as defined in Article 4(6), except products defined in Article 4(5) or where otherwise set out in Section IV.
Flexibility is allowed regarding compliance to the requirements specified in this Section, but any deviations from the requirements in this Annex shall be scientifically justified and based on specific properties of the biological product. For particular substances, safety data in addition to the requirements listed in this Section may be required depending on the nature of the product.
IIIa.1. Part 1: Summary of the dossier
Please refer to Section I.
IIIa.2. Part 2: Quality documentation (physicochemical, biological or microbiological information)
IIIa.2A. Product description
IIIa.2A1. Qualitative and quantitative composition
(1) |
The qualitative and quantitative composition of the biological veterinary medicinal product shall be stated. This section shall include information regarding:
|
(2) |
In order to give the quantitative composition of all the active substances and excipients of the veterinary medicinal products, it is necessary, depending on the pharmaceutical form concerned, to specify the mass, or the number of units of biological activity, either per dosage-unit or per unit of mass or volume, of each active substance and excipient. |
(3) |
Where possible, biological activity per units of mass or volume shall be indicated. Where an international unit of biological activity has been defined, this shall be used, unless otherwise justified. Where no international unit has been defined, the units of biological activity shall be expressed in such a way as to provide unambiguous information on the activity of the substances by using, where applicable, the European Pharmacopoeia Units. |
(4) |
The “usual terminology” to be used in describing the constituents of biological veterinary medicinal products notwithstanding the application of the other provisions of Article 8, shall mean:
|
IIIa.2A2. Product development
An explanation shall be provided including but not limited to:
(a) |
the choice of composition and the choice of the constituents, in particular relative to their intended functions and their respective concentrations; |
(b) |
the inclusion of a preservative in the composition shall be justified; |
(c) |
the immediate packaging and the suitability of the container and its closure system used for the storage and use of the finished product. A study of the interaction between the finished product and the primary packaging shall be submitted wherever the risk of such interaction is regarded as possible, especially where injectable preparations are concerned; |
(d) |
the microbiological characteristics (microbiological purity and antimicrobial activity) and usage instructions; |
(e) |
the possible further packaging, outer packaging, if relevant; |
(f) |
the proposed pack sizes related to the proposed route of administration, the posology and the target species; |
(g) |
any overage(s) in the formulation to guarantee minimum potency at end of shelf life with justification; |
(h) |
the selection of the manufacturing process of the active substance and the finished product; |
(i) |
differences between the manufacturing process(es) used to produce batches used in clinical trials and the process described in the application for marketing authorisation shall be discussed; |
(j) |
when a dosing device is provided with the finished product, the accuracy of the doses(s) shall be demonstrated; |
(k) |
when an accompanying test is recommended to be used with the finished product (e.g. a diagnostic test), relevant information about the test shall be provided. |
(l) |
This explanation shall be supported by scientific data on product development. |
IIIa.2A3. Characterisation
IIIa.2A3.1. Elucidation of structure and other characteristics
(1) |
Characterisation of a biotechnological or biological substance (which includes the determination of physicochemical properties, biological activity, immuno-chemical properties, purity and impurities) by appropriate techniques is necessary to allow a suitable specification to be established. Reference to literature data only is not acceptable, unless otherwise justified by prior knowledge from similar molecules for modifications where there is no safety concern. Adequate characterisation shall be performed in the development phase and, where necessary, following significant process changes. |
(2) |
All relevant information available on the primary, secondary and higher-order structure including post- translational (for example, glycoforms) and other modifications of the active substance shall be provided. |
(3) |
Details shall be provided on the biological activity (namely the specific ability or capacity of a product to achieve a defined biological effect). Usually, the biological activity shall be determined or evaluated using an appropriate, reliable and qualified method. Lack of such an assay shall be justified. It is recognised that the extent of characterisation data will increase during development. |
(4) |
The rationale for selection of the methods used for characterisation shall be provided and their suitability shall be justified. |
IIIa.2A3.2. Impurities
(1) |
Process-related impurities (for example, host cell proteins, host cell DNA, media residues, column leachables) and product-related impurities (for example, precursors, cleaved forms, degradation products, aggregates) shall be addressed. Quantitative information on impurities shall be provided including maximum amount for the highest dose. For certain process-related impurities (for example, antifoam agents), an estimation of clearance may be justified. |
(2) |
In the case that only qualitative data are provided for certain impurities, this shall be justified. |
IIIa.2B. Description of the manufacturing method
(1) |
The description of the manufacturing method accompanying the application for marketing authorisation pursuant to Article 8 shall be drafted in such a way as to give an adequate description of the nature of the operations employed. |
(2) |
The name(s) and address(es) and responsibilities of each manufacturer, including contractors, and each proposed production site or facility involved in manufacture, testing and batch release shall be provided. |
(3) |
The description of the manufacturing process shall include at least:
|
(4) |
Description, documentation, and results of the validation and/or evaluation studies shall be provided for critical steps or critical assays used in the manufacturing process (for example, validation of the sterilisation process or aseptic processing or filling) and the validation of the production process as a whole shall be demonstrated with provision of results of three consecutive batches produced using the method described. |
IIIa.2C. Production and control of starting materials
(1) |
For the purposes of this point “starting materials” means all components, including the active substances used in the production of the biological veterinary medicinal product. Culture media used for production of the active substances shall be regarded as one starting material. |
(2) |
The qualitative and quantitative composition shall be presented insofar as the authorities consider that this information is relevant to the quality of the finished product and any risks that might be posed. |
(3) |
If materials of animal origin are used for preparation of those culture media, the animal species and the tissue used have to be included and compliance with the relevant monographs including general monographs and general chapters of the European Pharmacopoeia shall be demonstrated. |
(4) |
The applicant shall supply documentation to demonstrate that the starting materials, including seed materials, cell seeds, batches of serum and other material originating from animal species relevant for the transmission of TSE and the manufacturing of the veterinary medicinal product is in compliance with the requirements of the Note for Guidance on minimising the risk of transmitting animal spongiform encephalopathy agents via human and veterinary medicinal products, as well as with the requirements of the corresponding monograph of the European Pharmacopoeia. |
(5) |
Certificates of Suitability issued by the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines and HealthCare, with reference to the relevant monograph of the European Pharmacopoeia, may be used to demonstrate compliance. |
(6) |
The dossier shall include the specifications, information on the tests to be conducted for the quality control of all batches of starting materials and results from a batch of all components used and shall be submitted in accordance with the following provisions. |
(7) |
Certificates of Analysis shall be presented for the starting materials in order to demonstrate compliance with the defined specification. |
(8) |
Colouring matter shall in all cases satisfy the requirements of Directive 2009/35/EC. |
(9) |
The use of antibiotics during production and preservatives shall be in compliance with the European Pharmacopoeia. |
(10) |
For novel excipients – excipient(s) used for the first time in the Union in a veterinary medicinal product or by a new route of administration – details of manufacture, characterisation, and controls, with cross references to supporting safety data, both clinical and non-clinical, shall be provided. For colouring matters the declarations of compliance as mentioned under Part II.2C2, points (3) and (4) shall be considered sufficient. |
IIIa.2C1. Starting materials listed in pharmacopoeias
(1) |
The monographs of the European Pharmacopoeia shall be applicable to all starting materials appearing in it, unless adequate justification is provided. |
(2) |
In respect of other substances, each Member State may require observance of its own national pharmacopoeia with regard to products manufactured in its territory. |
(3) |
The description of the analytical methods may be replaced by a detailed reference to the pharmacopoeia in question. |
(4) |
The routine tests carried out on each batch of starting materials shall be as stated in the application for marketing authorisation. If tests other than those mentioned in the pharmacopoeia are used, proof shall be supplied that the starting materials meet the quality requirements of that pharmacopoeia. |
(5) |
Where a specification or other provisions contained in a monograph of the European Pharmacopoeia or in the pharmacopoeia of a Member State might be insufficient to ensure the quality of the substance, the competent authorities may request more appropriate specifications from the applicant for marketing authorisation. The alleged insufficiency shall be reported to the authorities responsible for the pharmacopoeia in question. |
IIIa.2C2. Starting materials not listed in a pharmacopoeia
IIIa.2C2.1. Starting materials of biological origin
(1) |
Where source materials such as microorganisms, tissues of either plant or animal origin, cells or fluids (including blood) of human or animal origin or biotechnological cell constructs are used in the manufacture of veterinary medicinal products, the origin, including geographical region, and history of starting materials shall be described and documented. The origin, general health and immunological status of animals used for production shall be indicated and defined pools of source materials shall be used. |
(2) |
Freedom from extraneous agents (bacteria, mycoplasma, fungi and viruses) shall be demonstrated in compliance with the European Pharmacopoeia for seed materials, including cell seeds and pools of serum and, whenever possible, the source materials from which they are derived. |
(3) |
Information shall be provided on all substances of biological origin used at any stage in the manufacturing procedure. The information shall include the manufacturing strategy, purification and inactivation procedures with their validation and all in-process control procedures designed to ensure the quality, safety and batch to batch consistency of the finished product as well as details of any tests for contamination carried out on each batch of the substance. Any special precautions which may be necessary during storage of the starting material and, if necessary, its storage life shall be given. |
(4) |
When starting materials of animal or human origin are used, the measures used to ensure freedom from extraneous agents shall be described. If the presence of extraneous agents is detected or suspected, the corresponding material shall be discarded or processed to reduce the risk of presence with a validated treatment. If after treatment presence is detected or suspected, the corresponding material shall be used only when further processing of the product ensures their elimination and/or inactivation; elimination and/or inactivation of such extraneous agents shall be demonstrated. |
(5) |
When cell seeds are used, the cell characteristics shall be shown to have remained unchanged up to the highest passage level used for the production. |
(6) |
For genetically engineered starting materials this information shall include details such as the description of the starting cells or strains, the construction of the expression vector (name, origin, function of the replicon, promoter enhancer and other regulator elements), control of the sequence of DNA or RNA effectively inserted, oligonucleotide sequences of plasmid vector in cells, plasmid used for cotransfection, added or deleted genes, biological properties of the final construct and the genes expressed, copy number and genetic stability. |
(7) |
In the case of veterinary medicinal products containing or consisting of genetically modified organisms (GMO), the quality part of the application shall also be accompanied by the documents required in accordance with Directive 2001/18/EC. |
(8) |
When required, samples of the biological starting material or reagents used in the testing procedures shall be provided to enable the competent authority to arrange for check tests to be carried out. |
IIIa.2C2.2. Starting materials of non-biological origin
(1) |
The description shall be given in the form of a monograph under the following headings:
|
IIIa.2D. Control tests during the manufacturing process
(1) |
The dossier shall include particulars relating to the in-process control tests, which are carried out on intermediate stages of manufacture with a view to verify the consistency of the manufacturing process and the final product. Specifications shall be set for each control test and the analytical methods shall be described. Validation of the control tests shall be provided, unless otherwise justified. |
(2) |
The specification for the batch(es) of active substance shall define acceptance criteria together with the tests used to exert sufficient control of the quality of the active substance. A test for biological activity shall be included unless otherwise justified. Upper limits, taking into account safety considerations, shall be set for the impurities. Microbiological quality for the active substance shall be specified. Freedom from extraneous agents (bacteria, mycoplasma, fungi and viruses) shall be demonstrated according to the European Pharmacopoeia. |
(3) |
In accordance with Directive 2010/63/EU and the European Convention for the Protection of Vertebrate Animals Used for Experimental and Other Scientific Purposes, tests shall be carried out in such a way as to use the minimum number of animals and to cause the least pain, suffering, distress or lasting harm. If available, an alternative in vitro test shall be used when this leads to replacement or reduction of animal use or reduction of suffering. |
IIIa.2E. Control tests on the finished product
IIIa.2E1 Finish product specification
For all tests, the description of the techniques for analysing the finished product shall be set out in sufficient detail for quality assessment.
Where appropriate monographs exist, if test procedures and limits other than those mentioned in the monographs of the European Pharmacopoeia, or failing this, in the pharmacopoeia of a Member State, are used, proof must be supplied that the finished product would, if tested in accordance with those monographs, meet the quality requirements of that pharmacopoeia for the pharmaceutical form concerned. The application for marketing authorisation shall list those tests, which are carried out on representative samples of each batch of finished product. The frequency of the tests carried out on the final bulk instead of on the batch or batches prepared from it, shall be stated, if applicable. The frequency of the tests which are not carried out routinely shall be justified. Acceptance criteria for release shall be indicated and justified. Validation of the control tests carried out on the finished product shall be provided.
Upper limits, taking into account safety considerations, shall be set for the impurities.
IIIa.2E2 Method descriptions and validation of release tests
(1) |
General characteristics
The tests of general characteristics shall, wherever applicable, relate to the appearance of the finished product and to physical or chemical tests, such as, pH, osmolality, etc. For each of those characteristics, specifications, with appropriate confidence limits, shall be established by the applicant in each particular case. |
(2) |
Identification and potency test
Where necessary, a specific test for identification of the active substance shall be carried out. When appropriate, the identification test may be combined with the potency test. An activity test or test for quantification of the active substance or test to quantitatively measure the functionality (biological activity/functional effect) which is linked to relevant biological properties shall be implemented to show that each batch will contain the appropriate potency to ensure its safety and efficacy. A biological assay shall be obligatory when physicochemical methods does not provide adequate information on the quality of the product. Such an assay shall, whenever possible, include reference materials and statistical analysis allowing calculation of confidence limits. Where those tests may not be carried out on the finished product, they may be performed at an intermediate stage, as late as possible in the manufacturing process. Where degradation occurs during manufacture of the finished product, the maximum acceptable levels of individual and total degradation products immediately following manufacture shall be indicated. |
(3) |
Identification and assay of excipient components
Insofar as is necessary, the excipient(s) shall be subject at least to identification tests. An upper and lower limit test shall be obligatory in respect of preserving agents. An upper limit test for any other excipient components liable to give rise to an adverse reaction shall be obligatory. If applicable, the quantity and nature of the adjuvant and its components shall be verified on the finished product, unless otherwise justified. |
(4) |
Sterility and purity tests
Freedom from extraneous agents (bacteria, mycoplasma, fungi and bacterial endotoxin when relevant) shall be demonstrated in compliance with the European Pharmacopoeia. Appropriate tests to demonstrate the absence of contamination by other substances, shall be carried out according to the nature of the biological veterinary medicinal product, the method and the conditions of manufacture. If fewer tests than required by the relevant European Pharmacopoeia are routinely employed for each batch, the tests carried out shall be critical to the compliance with the monograph. Proof shall be supplied that the biological veterinary medicinal product would meet the requirements, if fully tested according to the monograph. |
(5) |
Residual humidity
Each batch of lyophilised product or tablet shall be tested for residual humidity. |
(6) |
Filling volume
Appropriate tests to demonstrate the correct filling volume shall be carried out. |
IIIa.2E3. Reference standards or materials
Information regarding the manufacturing process used to establish the reference material shall be provided. If more than one reference standard has been used for a particular test during product development, a qualification history shall be provided describing how the relationship between the different standards was maintained.
If other reference preparations and standards than those of the European Pharmacopoeia are used, they shall be identified and described in detail.
IIIa.2F. Batch-to-batch consistency
IIIa.2F1. Active substance
In order to ensure that quality of the active substance is consistent from batch to batch and to demonstrate conformity with specifications data from representative batches shall be provided.
IIIa.2F2. Finished product
In order to ensure that quality of the product is consistent from batch to batch and to demonstrate conformity with specifications a full protocol of three consecutive batches representative of the routine production shall be provided.
IIIa.2G. Stability tests
(1) |
Stability tests cover stability of the active substance and the finished product, including solvent(s), if relevant. If active substance(s) are stored, the intended conditions and duration of storage shall be defined on the basis of stability data; they may be obtained either through testing of the active substances themselves or through appropriate testing of the finished product. |
(2) |
A description shall be given of the tests undertaken to support the shelf life, the recommended storage conditions and the specifications at the end of the shelf life proposed by the applicant. Those tests shall always be real-time studies; they shall be carried out on not fewer than three representative batches produced according to the described production process and on products stored in the final container(s); those tests include biological and physicochemical stability tests carried out at regular intervals, for the finished product until the claimed end of the shelf life. |
(3) |
The conclusions shall contain the results of analyses, justifying the proposed shelf life under all proposed storage conditions. The results obtained during the stability study shall be taken into account when defining appropriate formulation and release specifications to ensure the conformity of the product with the claimed shelf life. |
(4) |
In the case of products administered in feed, information shall also be given as necessary on the shelf life of the product, at the different stages of mixing, when mixed in accordance with the recommended instructions. |
(5) |
Where a finished product requires reconstitution prior to administration or is administered in drinking water, details of the proposed shelf life are required for the product reconstituted as recommended. Data in support of the proposed shelf life for the reconstituted product shall be submitted. |
(6) |
In the case of multi-dose containers, where relevant, stability data shall be presented to justify a shelf life for the product after it has been broached or opened for the first time and an in-use specification shall be defined. |
(7) |
Where a finished product is liable to give rise to degradation products, the applicant shall declare those products and indicate the identification methods and test procedures used. |
(8) |
Stability data obtained from combined products may be used where adequately justified for derivative products containing one or more of the same components. |
(9) |
The efficacy of any preservative system shall be demonstrated. Information on the efficacy of preservatives in other similar biological veterinary medicinal products from the same manufacturer may be sufficient. |
IIIa.2H. Other information
Information relating to the quality of the biological veterinary medicinal product not covered by Part IIIa.2 to IIIa2G may be included in the dossier.
IIIa.3. Part 3: Safety documentation (safety and residues tests)
(1) |
Each study report shall include:
|
(2) |
Published studies may be accepted if they contain a sufficient amount of data and sufficient details to allow an independent assessment. The experimental techniques shall be described in such detail as to allow them to be reproduced, and the investigator shall establish their validity. Summaries of studies for which detailed reports are not available shall not be accepted as valid documentation. To address certain safety requirements reference may be made to EPMAR when the substance has been previously evaluated for the establishment of MRLs. Where reference to EPMARs is made there is no need to submit studies already evaluated as part of the MRL evaluation; only new studies not available for the MRL assessment shall be provided. If the route of exposure (for example, for the user) is not identical to the route used in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2018/78, new studies may be necessary. |
IIIa.3A. Safety tests
(1) |
The safety documentation shall be adequate for assessment of:
|
(2) |
In some cases, it may be necessary to test the metabolites of the parent compound where these represent the residues of concern. |
(3) |
An excipient used for the first time in a veterinary medicinal product or by a new means of administration shall be treated like an active substance. |
(4) |
All sections listed in Part IIIa.3A shall be addressed. Depending on the nature of the product, certain sections may not be relevant and studies may be omitted, where justified. |
IIIa.3A1. Precise identification of the product and of its active substance(s):
(a) |
international non-proprietary name (INN); |
(b) |
International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry Name (IUPAC); |
(c) |
Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) number; |
(d) |
therapeutic, pharmacological and chemical classification; |
(e) |
synonyms and abbreviations; |
(f) |
structural formula; |
(g) |
molecular formula; |
(h) |
molecular weight; |
(i) |
degree of impurity; |
(j) |
qualitative and quantitative composition of impurities; |
(k) |
description of physical properties; |
(l) |
solubility in water and organic solvents expressed in g/l, with indication of temperature; |
(m) |
refraction of light, optical rotation, etc.; |
(n) |
formulation of the product. |
IIIa.3A2. Pharmacology
(1) |
Pharmacological studies are of fundamental importance in clarifying the mechanisms by which the veterinary medicinal product produces its therapeutic effects, and therefore pharmacological studies conducted in the target species of animal and where applicable in non-target species, shall be included. Cross-reference may be made, if applicable, to studies submitted in Part 4 of the dossier. |
(2) |
Pharmacological studies may also assist in the understanding of toxicological phenomena. Where a veterinary medicinal product produces pharmacological effects in the absence of a toxic response, or at doses lower than those required to elicit toxicity, those pharmacological effects shall be taken into account during the evaluation of the safety of the veterinary medicinal product. |
(3) |
The safety documentation shall always be preceded by details of pharmacological investigations undertaken in laboratory animals and all relevant information observed during clinical studies in the target animal. |
IIIa.3A2.1. Pharmacodynamics
Information on the mechanism of action of the active substance(s) shall be provided, together with information on primary and secondary pharmacodynamic effects in order to assist in the understanding of any adverse effects in the animal studies. Detailed reporting of pharmacodynamic properties relating to the therapeutic effect shall be reported in Part 4A of the dossier.
IIIa.3A2.2. Pharmacokinetics
Data on the fate of the active substance and its metabolites in laboratory animals shall be provided, covering absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME). The data shall be related to the dose/effect findings in the pharmacological and toxicological studies, to determine adequate exposure.
IIIa.3A3. Toxicology
(1) |
The documentation on toxicology shall follow the guidance published by the Agency on the general approach to testing and guidance on particular studies. This guidance includes toxicological data required for the establishment of user safety, and the assessment of adverse effects in target animals and the environment. |
(2) |
Toxicity studies shall be conducted with the active substance(s), not with the formulated product, unless specifically required otherwise. |
(3) |
Animal studies shall be conducted in established strains of laboratory animals for which (preferably) historical data are available. |
IIIa.3A3.1. Single-dose toxicity
Single-dose toxicity studies may be used to predict:
(a) |
the possible effects of acute overdose in the target species; |
(b) |
the possible effects of accidental administration to humans; |
(c) |
the doses which may usefully be employed in the repeat dose studies. |
Single-dose toxicity studies shall reveal the acute toxic effects of the substance and the time course for their onset and remission.
The studies to be carried out shall be selected with a view to providing information on user safety, for example, if substantial exposure by inhalation or dermal contact of the user of the veterinary medicinal product is anticipated, those routes of exposure shall be studied.
IIIa.3A3.2. Repeat-dose toxicity
Repeat-dose toxicity tests are intended to reveal any physiological and/or pathological changes induced by repeated administration of the active substance or combination of active substances under examination, and to determine how those changes are related to dosage.
A repeat-dose toxicity study in one species of experimental animal shall normally be sufficient. This study may be replaced by a study conducted in the target animal. The frequency and route of administration, and the duration of the study shall be chosen having regard to the proposed conditions of clinical use and/or user exposure. The applicant shall give his reasons for the extent and duration of the studies and the dosages chosen.
IIIa.3A3.3. Tolerance in the target species
A summary shall be provided of any signs of intolerance which have been observed during studies conducted, usually with the final formulation, in the target species in accordance with the requirements of Part IIIa.4A4 (target animal safety). The studies concerned, the dosages at which the intolerance occurred, and the species and breeds concerned shall be identified. Details of any unexpected physiological changes shall also be provided. The full reports of those studies shall be included in Part 4 of the dossier.
IIIa.3A3.4. Reproductive toxicity including developmental toxicity
(1) |
Study of the effects on reproduction
For products intended for use in breeding animals, reproductive safety studies in line with VICH GL43 shall be provided. Reproduction toxicity studies in laboratory animals are not expected for the evaluation of effects on the user. |
(2) |
Study of developmental toxicity
For the evaluation of effects in the target animal species, developmental toxicity studies are not required for products intended only for use in non-breeding animals. For other products a study of developmental toxicity shall be performed in at least one species, which may be the target species. For the evaluation of user safety, standard developmental toxicity testing in accordance with standard tests based on established guidance (including VICH GL32 and OECD tests) shall be performed in all cases where significant user exposure may be expected. |
IIIa.3A3.5. Genotoxicity
Tests for genotoxic potential shall be performed, unless otherwise justified, to reveal changes which a substance may cause in the genetic material of cells. Any substance intended to be included in a veterinary medicinal product for the first time shall be assessed for genotoxic properties.
A standard battery of genotoxicity tests in accordance with standard tests based on established guidance (including VICH GL23 and OECD tests) shall usually be carried out on the active substance(s).
IIIa.3A3.6. Carcinogenicity
The decision on whether carcinogenicity testing is required shall take into account the results of genotoxicity tests, structure-activity relationships and the findings in repeat dose toxicity tests that may demonstrate the potential for hyper-/neo-plastic changes.
Any known species specificity of the mechanism of toxicity shall be considered, as well as any differences in metabolism between the test species, target animal species, and human beings.
Carcinogenicity testing shall be conducted in accordance with standard tests based on established guidance (including VICH GL28 and OECD tests).
IIIa.3A3.7. Exceptions
Where a veterinary medicinal product is intended for topical use, systemic absorption shall be investigated in the target animal species. If it is proved that systemic absorption is negligible, the repeated dose toxicity tests, the tests for developmental toxicity and the carcinogenicity tests may be omitted, unless:
(a) |
under the intended conditions of use, oral ingestion of the veterinary medicinal product by the animal is to be expected, or |
(b) |
under the intended conditions of use, oral exposure of the user of the veterinary medicinal product is to be expected. |
IIIa.3A4. Other requirements
IIIa.3A4.1. Special studies
For particular groups of substances, or if the effects observed during repeated dose studies in animals include changes indicative of, for example, immunogenicity, immunotoxicity, neurotoxicity or endocrine dysfunction, further testing shall be required, for example, sensitisation studies or delayed neurotoxicity tests. Depending on the nature of the product, it may be necessary to conduct additional studies to assess the underlying mechanism of the toxic effect or the irritation potential.
For products for which there may be exposure to skin and eyes, irritation and sensitisation studies shall be provided. Those studies shall usually be conducted with the final formulation.
The state of scientific knowledge and established guidance shall be taken into account when designing such studies and evaluating their results.
IIIa.3A4.2. Observations in humans
Information shall be provided on whether the pharmacologically active substances of the veterinary medicinal product are used as medicinal products in human therapy; if this the case, a compilation shall be made from published studies of all the effects observed (including adverse reactions) in humans and of their cause, to the extent that they may be important for the assessment of the safety of the veterinary medicinal product, where constituents of the veterinary medicinal products are themselves not used or are no longer used as medicinal products in human therapy for safety reasons, they shall be stated if publicly available.
IIIa.3A4.3. Development of resistance and related risk in humans
The data requirements mentioned in this point are related to antibacterial substances and may not be applicable to other types of antimicrobial (namely antivirals, antifungals and antiprotozoals); for substances other than antibacterial for which the existence of antimicrobial resistance is well established, the same requirements may be followed, where applicable.
Data on the potential emergence of resistant bacteria or resistance determinants of relevance for human health which are associated with the use of veterinary medicinal products are necessary. The mechanism of the development and selection of such resistance is particularly important in this regard. Where necessary, measures to limit resistance development from the intended use of the veterinary medicinal product shall be proposed.
Resistance data relevant for clinical use of the product in target animals shall be addressed in accordance with Part IIIa.4A2. Where relevant, cross reference shall be made to the data set out in Part IIIa.4A2.
(1) |
For food-producing animals the risk assessment shall address:
|
(2) |
For companion animals, consideration of risk to human or public health shall address:
|
(3) |
Resistance in the environment shall be addressed. |
IIIa.3A5. User safety
The user safety section shall include an assessment of the effects found in Part IIIa.3A to IIIa.3A4 and relate this to the type and extent of human exposure to the product with a view to formulating appropriate user warnings and other risk management measures.
User safety shall be addressed in accordance with CVMP guidelines.
IIIa.3A6. Environmental risk assessment
IIIa.3A6.1. Environmental risk assessment of veterinary medicinal products not containing or consisting of genetically modified organisms
(1) |
An environmental risk assessment shall be performed to assess the potential harmful effects, which the use of the veterinary medicinal product may cause to the environment and to identify the risk of such effects. The assessment shall also identify any precautionary measures which may be necessary to reduce such risk. |
(2) |
This assessment consists of two phases. The first phase of the assessment shall always be performed. The details of the assessment shall be provided in accordance with guidance published by the Agency. It shall indicate the potential exposure of the environment to the product and the level of risk associated with any such exposure taking into account in particular the following items:
|
(3) |
In the second phase, further specific investigation of the fate and effects of the product on particular ecosystems shall be conducted, in accordance with guidance published by the Agency. The extent of exposure of the product to the environment, and the available information about the physical/chemical, pharmacological and/or toxicological properties of the substance(s) concerned, including metabolites in case of an identified risk, which has been obtained during the conduct of the other tests and trials required by this Regulation, shall be taken into consideration.
For products intended for food producing species persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) or very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB) substances shall be classified according to the criteria in Annex XIII to the REACH Regulation and assessed in accordance with the guidance for PBT and vPvB assessment of substances in veterinary medicines published by the Agency |
IIIa.3A6.2. Environmental risk assessment for veterinary medicinal products containing or consisting of genetically modified organisms
(1) |
In the case of a veterinary medicinal product containing or consisting of genetically modified organisms the application shall also be accompanied by the documents required under Article 2 and Part C of Directive 2001/18/EC. |
(2) |
Potential adverse effects on human health and the environment, which may occur through gene transfer from GMOs to other organisms or arise from genetic modifications, shall be accurately assessed on a case-by-case basis. The objective of such an environmental risk assessment is to identify and evaluate potential direct and indirect, immediate or delayed adverse effects of the GMO on human health and the environment (including plants and animals) and shall be carried out in accordance with the principles of Annex II to Directive 2001/18/EC. |
IIIa.3B. Residue tests
(1) |
For the purposes of this point, the definitions of Regulation (EC) No 470/2009 shall apply. |
(2) |
The purpose of studying the depletion of residues from the edible tissues or from eggs, milk and honey (wax if appropriate) derived from treated animals is to determine under what conditions and to what extent residues may persist in foodstuffs produced from those animals. In addition, the studies shall enable the determination of a withdrawal period. |
(3) |
In the case of veterinary medicinal products intended for use in food-producing animals, the residue documentation shall show:
|
IIIa.3B1. Identification of the product
An identification of the veterinary medicinal product(s) used in the testing shall be provided, including:
(a) |
composition; |
(b) |
the physical and chemical (potency and purity) test results for the relevant batch(es); |
(c) |
batch identification. |
IIIa.3B2. Depletion of residues
(1) |
The purpose of these studies, which measure the rate at which residues deplete in the target animal after the last administration of the veterinary medicinal product, is to permit the determination of withdrawal periods necessary to ensure that no residues which might constitute a hazard for consumers are present in foodstuffs obtained from treated animals. |
(2) |
The current status of the maximum residue limits for the components of the veterinary medicinal product in the relevant target species shall be reported. |
(3) |
The levels of residues present shall be determined at a sufficient number of time points after the test animals have received the final dose of the veterinary medicinal product. The studies in mammals and birds shall be performed according to VICH GL48 and other relevant guidelines. Residue studies in honey shall be performed according to VICH GL56 and depletion studies in aquatic species according to VICH GL57. |
(4) |
Based on the evaluation, the rationale for the proposed withdrawal period shall be addressed. |
IIIa.3B3. Residue analytical method
(1) |
The residue depletion study (studies), the analytical method(s) and its (their) validation shall be performed in accordance with VICH GL49. |
(2) |
The suitability of the analytical method proposed shall be evaluated with regard to the state of scientific and technical knowledge at the time the application is submitted. |
IIIa.4. Part 4: Efficacy documentation (pre-clinical studies and clinical trial(s))
IIIa.4A. Pre-clinical studies
Pre-clinical studies aim to investigate the target animal safety and efficacy of the product and are required to establish the pharmacological activity, pharmacokinetic properties, dose and dosing interval, resistance (if applicable) and the target animal tolerance of the product.
IIIa.4A1. Pharmacology
IIIa.4A1.1. Pharmacodynamics
(1) |
The pharmacodynamic effects of the active substance(s) included in the veterinary medicinal product shall be characterised. |
(2) |
The mode of action and the pharmacological effects on which the recommended application in practice is based shall be adequately described, including secondary effects (if any). In general, the effects on the main body functions shall be investigated. The results shall be expressed in quantitative terms (using, for example, dose-effect curves, time-effect curves, etc.) and, wherever possible, in comparison with a substance the activity of which is well known. Where a higher activity is being claimed for an active substance, the difference shall be demonstrated and shown to be statistically significant. |
(3) |
Any effect of the other characteristics of the products (such as the route of administration or formulation) on the pharmacological activity of the active substance shall be investigated. |
(4) |
The experimental techniques, unless they are standard procedures, shall be described in such detail as to allow them to be reproduced, and their validity to be established. The experimental results shall be set out clearly and the outcome of any statistical comparisons presented. |
(5) |
Unless adequate reasons are given to the contrary, any quantitative modification of responses resulting from repeated administration of the substance shall also be investigated. |
IIIa.4A1.2. Pharmacokinetics
(1) |
Basic pharmacokinetic data on the active substance are required in the context of assessment of the target animal safety and efficacy of the veterinary medicinal product in the target species, particularly if this concerns a new substance or formulation. |
(2) |
The objectives of pharmacokinetic studies in the target animal species may be divided into four main areas:
|
(3) |
In the target animal species, pharmacokinetic studies are, as a rule, necessary as a complement to the pharmacodynamic studies to support the establishment of safe and effective dosage regimens (route and site of administration, dose, dosing interval, number of administrations, etc.). Additional pharmacokinetic studies may be required to establish dosage regimens according to certain population variables. |
(4) |
Where pharmacokinetic studies have been submitted under Part 3 of the dossier, cross-reference to such studies may be made. |
(5) |
For fixed combinations, please refer to Section IV. |
IIIa.4A2. Development of resistance and related risk in animals
(1) |
For relevant biological veterinary medicinal products (for example, substances with antimicrobial and antiparasitic activity), information on current resistance (if applicable) and on the potential emergence of resistance of clinical relevance for the claimed indication in the target animal species shall be provided. Where possible, information on the resistance mechanism(s), the molecular genetic basis of resistance, and the rate of transfer of resistance determinants shall be presented. Whenever relevant, information on co-resistance and cross-resistance shall be presented. Measures to limit resistance development in organisms of clinical relevance for the intended use of the veterinary medicinal product shall be proposed by the applicant. |
(2) |
Resistance relevant for risks to humans shall be addressed in Part 3 of the dossier. Where relevant, cross-reference shall be made to data set out in Part 3 of the dossier. |
IIIa.4A3. Dose determination and confirmation
(1) |
Appropriate data shall be provided to justify the proposed dose, dosing interval, duration of treatment and any re-treatment interval. |
(2) |
For studies conducted under field conditions, relevant information shall be provided as outlined under clinical studies. |
IIIa.4A4. Tolerance in the target animal species
(1) |
The local and systemic tolerance of the veterinary medicinal product shall be investigated in the target animal species. The purpose of target animal safety studies is to characterise signs of intolerance and to establish an adequate margin of safety using the recommended route(s) of administration. This may be achieved by increasing the dose and/or the duration of treatment. |
(2) |
The study report(s) shall contain details of all expected pharmacological effects and all adverse reactions. The conduct of target animal safety studies shall be in accordance with VICH and relevant guidance published by the Agency. Other pre-clinical studies and clinical studies, along with relevant information from the published literature may also provide information on safety in the target species. |
IIIa.4B. Clinical trials
IIIa.4B1. General principles
(1) |
Clinical trials shall be designed, carried out and reported taking into account VICH and relevant guidance published by the Agency. Data stemming from clinical trials conducted outside the Union may be taken into consideration for the assessment of an application for a marketing authorisation only, if the data are sufficiently representative of the Union situation. |
(2) |
Experimental data such as exploratory/pilot trials, or results from non-experimental approaches shall be confirmed by data obtained under normal field conditions, unless otherwise justified. |
(3) |
The purpose of clinical trials is to examine under field conditions the target animal safety and efficacy of a veterinary medicinal product under normal conditions of animal husbandry and/or as part of good veterinary practice. They shall demonstrate the effect of the veterinary medicinal product after administration to the intended target species using the proposed dosage regimen and the proposed route(s) of administration. The trial design shall aim to support the indications and take into account any contra-indications according to species, age, breed and sex, directions for use of the veterinary medicinal product as well as any adverse reactions which it may have. |
(4) |
All veterinary clinical trials shall be conducted in accordance with a detailed trial protocol. For formulations intended for use in veterinary clinical trials in the Union, the words “for veterinary clinical trial use only” shall appear prominently and indelibly on the labelling. |
(5) |
Unless otherwise justified, clinical trials shall be carried out with control animals (controlled clinical trials). The efficacy results obtained with the new product shall be compared with those from the target animal species that have received a veterinary medicinal product authorised in the Union that has demonstrated an acceptable level of efficacy and been approved for the proposed indication(s) for use in the same target animal species, or a placebo or no treatment. All the results obtained, whether positive or negative, shall be reported. |
(6) |
Established statistical principles in accordance with the relevant guidance published by the Agency shall be used in protocol design, analysis and evaluation of clinical trials, unless otherwise justified. |
IIIa.4B2. Documentation
The dossier on efficacy shall include all pre-clinical and clinical documentation, whether favourable or unfavourable to the veterinary medicinal products, in order to enable an objective overall assessment of the benefit/risk balance of the product.
IIIa.4B2.1. Results of pre-clinical studies
Wherever possible, particulars shall be given of the results of:
(a) |
tests demonstrating pharmacological activity; |
(b) |
tests demonstrating the pharmacodynamic mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effect; |
(c) |
tests demonstrating the main pharmacokinetic profile; |
(d) |
tests demonstrating target animal safety; |
(e) |
tests to determine and confirm the dose (including dose interval, duration of treatment and any re-treatment interval); |
(f) |
tests and investigations on resistance, if applicable. |
In the case where unexpected results occur during the course of the tests, those results shall be sufficiently detailed. Additionally, the following particulars shall be provided in all pre-clinical study reports.
(a) |
a summary; |
(b) |
a study protocol; |
(c) |
a detailed description of the objectives, design and conduct to include methods, apparatus and materials used, details such as species, age, weight, sex, number, breed or strain of animals, identification of animals, dose, route and schedule of administration; |
(d) |
a statistical analysis of the results; |
(e) |
an objective discussion of the results obtained, leading to conclusions on the efficacy and target animal safety of the veterinary medicinal product. |
Omission of any of those data shall be justified.
IIIa.4B2.2. Results of clinical trials
All the particulars shall be supplied by each of the investigators on individual record sheets in the case of individual treatment and collective record sheets in the case of collective treatment.
The marketing authorisation holder shall make all necessary arrangements to ensure that the original documents, which formed the basis of the data supplied, are kept for at least five years after the veterinary medicinal product is no longer authorised.
In respect of each clinical trial, the clinical observations shall be summarised in a synopsis of the trials and the results thereof, indicating in particular:
(a) |
the number of control and test animals treated either individually or collectively, with a breakdown according to species, breed or strain, age and sex; |
(b) |
the number of animals withdrawn prematurely from the trials and the reasons for such withdrawal; |
(c) |
in the case of control animals, whether they have:
|
(d) |
the frequency of observed adverse reactions; |
(e) |
observations as to the effect on animal performance, if appropriate; |
(f) |
details concerning test animals which may be at increased risk owing to their age, their mode of rearing or feeding, or the purpose for which they are intended, or animals the physiological or pathological condition of which requires special consideration; |
(g) |
a statistical evaluation of the results. |
The main investigator shall draw general conclusions on the efficacy and target animal safety of the veterinary medicinal product under the proposed conditions of use, and in particular any information relating to indications and contraindications, dosage and average duration of treatment and, where appropriate, any interactions observed with other veterinary medicinal products or feed additives as well as any special precautions to be taken during treatment and the clinical signs of overdoseage, when observed.
SECTION IIIb
REQUIREMENTS FOR IMMUNOLOGICAL VETERINARY MEDICINAL PRODUCTS
The following requirements shall apply to immunological veterinary medicinal products as defined in Article 4(5), except where otherwise set out in Section IV.
IIIb.1. Part 1: Summary of the dossier
Please refer to Section I.
IIIb.2. Part 2: Quality documentation (physicochemical, biological and microbiological information)
IIIb.2.A. Product description
IIIb.2A1. Qualitative and quantitative composition
(1) |
Qualitative composition of all the constituents of the immunological veterinary medicinal product shall mean the designation or description of:
|
(2) |
Those data in point (1) shall be supplemented by any relevant data concerning the immediate packaging and if relevant the outer packaging and, where appropriate, its manner of closure, together with details of devices with which the immunological veterinary medicinal product will be used or administered and which will be delivered with the medicinal product. If the device is not delivered together with the immunological veterinary medicinal product, relevant information about the device shall be provided, where necessary for the assessment of the product. |
(3) |
The usual terminology to be used in describing the constituents of immunological veterinary medicinal products, notwithstanding the application of the other provisions of Article 8, means:
|
(4) |
In order to give the quantitative composition of the active substances of an immunological veterinary medicinal product, it is necessary to specify whenever possible the number of organisms, the specific protein content, the mass, the number of International Units (IU) or units of biological activity, either per dosage-unit or volume, and with regard to the adjuvant and to the constituents of the excipients, the mass or the volume of each of them, with due allowance for the details provided in Part IIb.2B. |
(5) |
Where an international unit of biological activity has been defined, this shall be used. |
(6) |
The units of biological activity for which no published data exist shall be expressed in such a way as to provide unambiguous information on the activity of the ingredients, for example, by stating the amount as determined by titration or potency testing of the final product. |
(7) |
The composition shall be given in terms of minimum quantities and, if appropriate, with maximum quantities. |
IIIb.2A2. Product development
(1) |
Explanation shall be provided with regard to, but may not be limited to:
|
(2) |
This explanation shall be supported by scientific data on product development. |
IIIb.2B. Description of the manufacturing method
(1) |
The description of the manufacturing method accompanying the application for marketing authorisation pursuant to Article 8 shall be drafted in such a way as to give an adequate description of the nature of the operations employed, including the identification of the key stages in the production process. |
(2) |
The description of the manufacturing process shall include at least:
|
(3) |
Validation of all the methods of control used in the manufacturing process shall be described, documented and the results provided, unless otherwise justified. The validation of key stages in the production process shall be demonstrated and the validation of the production process as a whole shall be demonstrated with provision of results of three consecutive batches produced using the method described. |
IIIb.2C. Production and control of starting materials
(1) |
For the purposes of this Part, “starting materials” means all components used in the production of the immunological veterinary medicinal product. |
(2) |
Commercially available ready-to-use adjuvant systems designated by a brand name as well as culture media used for production of the active substance consisting of several components shall be regarded as one starting material. Nevertheless, the qualitative and quantitative composition shall be presented insofar as the authorities consider that this information is relevant to the quality of the finished product and any risks that might be posed. |
(3) |
If materials of animal origin are used for preparation of those culture media or adjuvant systems, the animal species and the tissue used have to be included and compliance with the relevant monographs including general monographs and general chapters of the European Pharmacopoeia shall be demonstrated. |
(4) |
The applicant shall supply documentation to demonstrate that the starting materials, including seed materials, cell seeds, batches of serum and other material originating from animal species relevant for the transmission of TSE and the manufacturing of the veterinary medicinal product is in compliance with the requirements of the Note for Guidance on minimising the risk of transmitting animal spongiform encephalopathy agents via human and veterinary medicinal products, as well as with the requirements of the corresponding monograph of the European Pharmacopoeia. Certificates of Suitability issued by the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines and HealthCare, with reference to the relevant monograph of the European Pharmacopoeia, may be used to demonstrate compliance. |
(5) |
The dossier shall include the specifications, information on the tests to be conducted for the quality control of all batches of starting materials and results for a batch for all components used and shall be submitted in accordance with the requirements of this Part. |
(6) |
Certificates of analysis shall be presented for the starting materials in order to demonstrate compliance with the defined specification. |
(7) |
Colouring matter shall, in all cases, satisfy the requirements of Directive 2009/35/EC. |
(8) |
The use of antibiotics during production and the inclusion of preservatives in the composition of the finished product shall be justified and in compliance with the European Pharmacopoeia. |
(9) |
For novel excipients, that is to say excipient(s) used for the first time in the Union in a veterinary medicinal product or by a new route of administration, details of manufacture, characterisation, and controls, with cross references to supporting safety data, both clinical and non- clinical, shall be provided. For colouring matters the declarations of compliance as mentioned under Part II.2C2, points (3) and (4) shall be considered sufficient. |
IIIb.2C1. Starting materials listed in pharmacopoeias
(1) |
The monographs of the European Pharmacopoeia shall be applicable to all starting materials appearing in it, unless proper justification is provided. |
(2) |
In respect of other substances, each Member State may require observance of its own national pharmacopoeia with regard to products manufactured in its territory. |
(3) |
The description of the analytical methods may be replaced by a detailed reference to the pharmacopoeia in question. |
(4) |
The routine tests carried out on each batch of starting materials shall be as stated in the application for marketing authorisation. If tests other than those mentioned in the pharmacopoeia are used, proof shall be supplied that the starting materials meet the quality requirements of that pharmacopoeia. |
(5) |
In cases where a specification or other provisions contained in a monograph of the European Pharmacopoeia or in the pharmacopoeia of a Member State might be insufficient to ensure the quality of the substance, the competent authorities may request more appropriate specifications from the applicant for marketing authorisation. The alleged insufficiency shall be reported to the authorities responsible for the pharmacopoeia in question. |
IIIb.2C2. Starting materials not listed in a pharmacopoeia
IIIb.2C2.1. Starting materials of biological origin
(1) |
The description shall be given in the form of a monograph. |
(2) |
Vaccine production shall be based on a seed lot system and on established cell seeds, whenever possible. For the production of immunological veterinary medicinal products consisting of serum, the origin, general health and immunological status of the producing animals shall be indicated and defined pools of source materials shall be used. |
(3) |
The origin, including geographical region, and history of starting materials shall be described and documented. |
(4) |
For genetically engineered starting materials this information shall include details such as the description of the starting cells or strains, the construction of the expression vector (name, origin, function of the replicon, promoter enhancer and other regulator elements), control of the sequence of DNA or RNA effectively inserted, oligonucleotide sequences of plasmid vector in cells, plasmid used for cotransfection, added or deleted genes, biological properties of the final construct and the genes expressed, copy number and genetic stability. |
(5) |
In the case of veterinary medicinal products containing or consisting of genetically modified organisms (GMO), the quality part of the application shall also be accompanied by the documents required in accordance with Directive 2001/18/EC. |
(6) |
Seed materials, including cell seeds and raw serum for anti-serum production shall be tested for identity and the absence of extraneous agents shall be demonstrated according to the European Pharmacopoeia. |
(7) |
Information shall be provided on all substances of biological origin used at any stage in the manufacturing procedure. The information shall include:
|
(8) |
If the presence of extraneous agents is detected or suspected, the corresponding material shall be discarded or processed to reduce the risk of presence with a validated treatment. If after treatment presence is detected or suspected, the corresponding material shall be used only when further processing of the product ensures their elimination and/or inactivation; elimination and/or inactivation of such extraneous agents shall be demonstrated. |
(9) |
When cell seeds are used, the cell characteristics shall be shown to have remained unchanged up to the highest passage level used for the production. |
(10) |
For live attenuated vaccines, confirmation of the stability of the attenuation characteristics of the seed shall be provided. Unless a specific characteristic is associated with the attenuation (e.g. genetic marker, thermal stability), this is typically achieved through absence of reversion to virulence in the target animal species. |
(11) |
When required, samples of the biological starting material or reagents used in the testing procedures shall be provided to enable the competent authority to arrange for check tests to be carried out. |
IIIb.2C2.2. Starting materials of non-biological origin
The description shall be given in the form of a monograph under the following headings:
(a) |
the name of the starting material meeting the requirements of point (3) of Part IIIb.2A1. shall be supplemented by any trade or scientific synonyms; |
(b) |
the description of the starting material, set down in a form similar to that used in a descriptive item in the European Pharmacopoeia; |
(c) |
the function of the starting material; |
(d) |
methods of identification; |
(e) |
any special precautions which may be necessary during storage of the starting material and, if necessary, its storage life shall be given. |
IIIb.2D. Control tests during the manufacturing process
(1) |
The dossier shall include particulars relating to the control tests, which are carried out on intermediate stages of manufacture with a view to verifying the consistency of the manufacturing process and the final product. Specifications shall be set for each control test and the analytical methods shall be described. Validation of the control tests for parameters considered critical to the manufacturing process shall be provided unless otherwise justified. |
(2) |
For inactivated or detoxified vaccines, inactivation or detoxification shall be tested during each production run as soon as possible after the end of the inactivation or detoxification process and after neutralisation if this occurs, but before the next step of production. |
(3) |
In accordance with the provisions of Directive 2010/63/EU and the European Convention for the Protection of Vertebrate Animals Used for Experimental and Other Scientific Purposes, tests shall be carried out in such a way as to use the minimum number of animals and to cause the least pain, suffering, distress or lasting harm. If available, an alternative in vitro test shall be used when this leads to replacement or reduction of animal use or reduction of suffering. |
IIIb.2E. Control tests on the finished product
(1) |
For all tests, the description of the techniques for analysing the finished product shall be set out in sufficient detail for a quality assessment. |
(2) |
Where appropriate monographs exist, if test procedures and limits other than those mentioned in the monographs of the European Pharmacopoeia, or failing this, in the pharmacopoeia of a Member State, are used, proof shall be supplied that the finished product would, if tested in accordance with those monographs, meet the quality requirements of that pharmacopoeia for the pharmaceutical form concerned. The application for marketing authorisation shall list those tests, which are carried out on representative samples of each batch of finished product. The frequency of the tests carried out on the final bulk vaccine instead of on the batch or batches prepared from it, shall be stated. Release limits shall be indicated and justified. Validation of the control tests carried out on the finished product shall be provided. |
(3) |
Information regarding the establishment and replacement of reference material shall be provided. If more than one reference standard has been used, a qualification history shall be provided describing how the relationship between the different standards was maintained. |
(4) |
Where available, chemical and biological reference material of the European Pharmacopoeia shall be used. If other reference preparations and standards are used, they shall be identified and described in detail. |
(5) |
In accordance with the provisions of Directive 2010/63/EU and the European Convention for the Protection of Vertebrate Animals Used for Experimental and Other Scientific Purposes, tests shall be carried out in such a way as to use the minimum number of animals and to cause the least pain, suffering, distress or lasting harm. If available, an alternative in vitro test shall be used when this leads to replacement or reduction of animal use or reduction of suffering. |
(6) |
General characteristics of the finished product
The tests of general characteristics shall, wherever applicable, relate to the appearance and to physical or chemical tests, such as, conductivity, pH, viscosity, etc. For each of those characteristics, specifications, with appropriate acceptance limits, shall be established by the applicant. |
(7) |
Identification of active substance(s)
Where necessary, a specific test for identification shall be carried out. When appropriate, the identification test may be combined with the batch titre or potency test. |
(8) |
Batch titre or potency
A quantification of the active substance shall be carried out on each batch to show that each batch will contain the appropriate potency or titre to ensure its safety and efficacy. |
(9) |
Identification and assay of adjuvants
The quantity and nature of the adjuvant and its components shall be verified on the finished product, unless otherwise justified. |
(10) |
Identification and assay of excipient components
Insofar as is necessary, the excipient(s) shall be subject at least to identification tests. An upper and lower limit test shall be obligatory in respect of preserving agents. An upper limit test for any other excipient components liable to give rise to an adverse reaction shall be obligatory. |
(11) |
Sterility and purity test
Freedom from extraneous agents (bacteria, mycoplasma, fungi and bacterial endotoxin when relevant) shall be demonstrated for parenterally administered products in compliance with the European Pharmacopoeia. For non-liquid, non-parenterally administered products, where adequately justified, compliance to a maximum bioburden limit instead of sterility test may be acceptable. Appropriate tests to demonstrate the absence of contamination by extraneous agents or other substances, shall be carried out according to the nature of the immunological veterinary medicinal product, the method and the conditions of manufacture. A risk-based approach to demonstrate the absence of extraneous agents as described in the European Pharmacopoeia shall be used. |
(12) |
Residual humidity
Each batch of lyophilised product shall be tested for residual humidity. |
(13) |
Filling volume
Appropriate tests to demonstrate the correct filling volume shall be carried out. |
IIIb.2F. Batch-to-batch consistency
In order to ensure that quality of the product is consistent from batch to batch and to demonstrate conformity with specifications a full protocol of three consecutive batches representative of the routine production giving the results for all tests performed during production and on the finished product shall be provided. Consistency data obtained from combined products may be used for derivative products containing one or more of the same components.
IIIb.2G. Stability tests
(1) |
Stability tests cover stability of the active substance and the finished product, including solvent(s), if relevant. |
(2) |
A description shall be given of the tests undertaken to support the shelf life, the recommended storage conditions and the specifications at the end of the shelf life proposed for the active substance and the finished product. Those tests shall always be real-time studies.
If intermediate products obtained at various stages of the manufacturing process are stored, the intended conditions and duration of storage shall be adequately justified on the basis of the stability data available. |
(3) |
Stability tests for the finished product shall be carried out on not fewer than three representative batches produced according to the described production process and on products stored in the final container(s); those tests include biological and physicochemical stability tests carried out at regular intervals, for the finished product until 3 months beyond the claimed end of the shelf life. |
(4) |
The conclusions shall contain the results of analyses, justifying the proposed shelf life under all proposed storage conditions. The results obtained during the stability study shall be taken into account when defining appropriate formulation and release specifications to ensure the conformity of the product with the claimed shelf life |
(5) |
In the case of products administered in feed, information shall also be given as necessary on the shelf life of the product, at the different stages of mixing, when mixed in accordance with the recommended instructions. |
(6) |
Where a finished product requires reconstitution prior to administration or is administered in drinking water, details of the proposed shelf life are required for the product reconstituted as recommended. Data in support of the proposed shelf life for the reconstituted product shall be submitted. |
(7) |
Stability data obtained from combined products may be used where adequately justified for derivative products containing one or more of the same components. |
(8) |
In the case of multi-dose containers, where relevant, stability data shall be presented to justify a shelf life for the product after it has been broached or opened for the first time and an in-use shelf-life specification shall be defined. |
(9) |
The efficacy of any preservative system shall be demonstrated. |
(10) |
Information on the efficacy of preservatives in other similar immunological veterinary medicinal products from the same manufacturer may be sufficient. |
(11) |
If active substances are stored, the intended conditions and duration of storage shall be defined on the basis of stability data. Those data may be obtained either through testing of the active substances themselves or through appropriate testing of the finished product. |
IIIb.2H. Other information
Information relating to the quality of the immunological veterinary medicinal product not covered by this Section may be included in the dossier.
IIIb.3. Part 3: Safety documentation (safety and residues tests)
IIIb.3A. General requirements
(1) |
The safety documentation shall be adequate for the assessment of:
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(2) |
Pre-clinical studies shall be carried out in compliance with good laboratory practice (GLP) requirements.
Non-GLP studies may be accepted for non-target species studies as well as studies evaluating immunological, biological or genetic properties of the vaccine strains, under adequately controlled conditions. Other deviations shall be justified. |
(3) |
All safety trials shall be conducted in accordance with a fully considered detailed protocol, which shall be recorded in writing prior to commencement of the trial. The welfare of the trial animals shall be subject to veterinary supervision and shall be taken fully into consideration during the elaboration of any trial protocol and throughout the conduct of the trial. |
(4) |
Pre-established systematic written procedures for the organisation, conduct, data collection, documentation and verification of safety trials shall be required. |
(5) |
Clinical trials (field trials) shall be conducted in compliance with established principles of good clinical practice (GCP). Deviations shall be justified. |
(6) |
The safety studies shall be in line with the relevant European Pharmacopeia requirements. Deviations shall be justified. |
(7) |
The safety studies shall be carried out in the target species. The dose to be used shall be the quantity of the product to be recommended for use and the batch used for safety testing shall be taken from a batch or batches produced according to the manufacturing process described in Part 2 of the application. |
(8) |
For laboratory tests described in Sections B.1, B.2 and B.3, the dose of the veterinary medicinal product shall contain the maximum titre, antigen content or potency. If necessary, the concentration of the antigen may be adjusted to achieve the required dose. |
(9) |
The safety of an immunological veterinary medicinal product shall be demonstrated for each category of target animal species in which its use is recommended, by each recommended route and method of administration and using the proposed schedule of administration. A worst-case scenario for route and method of administration may be used if scientifically justified. |
(10) |
In the case of immunological veterinary medicinal products consisting of live organisms, special requirements are included under B.6. |
(11) |
The particulars and documents which shall accompany the application for marketing authorisation shall be submitted in accordance with the requirements for pre-clinical studies and clinical trials described in Parts IIIb.4B, point (4), and IIIb.4C, point (3).. |
IIIb.3B. Pre-clinical studies
(1) |
Safety of the administration of one dose
The immunological veterinary medicinal product shall be administered at the recommended dose and by each recommended route and method of administration to animals of each species and each relevant category (e.g. minimum age, pregnant animals, as appropriate) in which it is intended for use. The animals shall be observed and examined daily for signs of systemic and local reactions until reactions may no longer be expected, but in all cases, at least 14 days after administration. Where appropriate, those studies shall include detailed post-mortem macroscopic and microscopic examinations of the injection site. Other objective criteria shall be recorded, such as rectal temperature and performance measurements. This study may be part of the repeated dose study required under point 3 or omitted if the results of the overdose study required under point 2 have revealed no major signs of systemic or local reactions. If omitted, the systemic or local reactions seen in the overdose study shall be taken as the basis for describing safety of the product in the Summary of Product Characteristics. |
(2) |
Safety of one administration of an overdose
Only live immunological veterinary medicinal products require overdose testing. An overdose of the immunological veterinary medicinal product, normally consisting of ten doses, shall be administered by each recommended route(s) and method(s) of administration to animals of the most sensitive categories of the target species, unless the selection of the most sensitive of several similar routes is justified. In the case of immunological veterinary medicinal products administered by injection, the doses and route(s) and method(s) of administration shall be chosen to take account of the maximum volume, which can be administered at any one single injection site. The animals shall be observed and examined daily for at least 14 days after administration for signs of systemic and local reactions. Other criteria shall be recorded, such as rectal temperature and performance measurements. Where appropriate, those studies shall include detailed post-mortem macroscopic and microscopic examinations of the injection site if this has not been done under point 1. |
(3) |
Safety of the repeated administration of one dose
In the case of immunological veterinary medicinal products to be administered more than once, as part of the basic administration scheme, a study of the repeated administration of one dose shall be required to reveal any adverse effects induced by such administration. The test shall be carried out on the most sensitive categories of the target species (such as certain breeds, age groups), using each recommended route and method of administration. The number of administrations shall not be less than the maximum number recommended; for vaccines, this shall take account of the number of administrations for primary vaccination and the first re-vaccination. The interval between administrations may be shorter than the one claimed in the Summary of Product Characteristics. The chosen interval shall be justified with respect to the proposed conditions of use. The animals shall be observed and examined daily for at least 14 days after the last administration for signs of systemic and local reactions. Other objective criteria shall be recorded, such as rectal temperature and performance measurements. |
(4) |
Examination of reproductive performance
Examination of reproductive performance shall be considered when the immunological veterinary product is intended for use or may be used in pregnant animals or laying birds and when data suggest that the starting material from which the product is derived may be a potential risk factor. Reproductive performance of males and non-pregnant and pregnant females shall be investigated with the recommended dose and by the most sensitive route and method of administration. For immunological veterinary medicinal products that are recommended for use in pregnant animals, examination of the reproductive performance shall address safety of administration during the entire gestation period or during specific period of gestation taking into account the intended use of the product. The observation period shall be extended to parturition to investigate possible harmful effects on the progeny, including teratogenic and abortifacient effects. Those studies may form part of the safety studies described in points 1, 2, 3 or of the field trials provided for in Section IIIb.3C. |
(5) |
Examination of immunological functions
Where the immunological veterinary medicinal product might adversely affect the immune response of the vaccinated animal or of its progeny, suitable tests on immunological function shall be carried out. |
(6) |
Special requirements for live vaccines |
(1) Spread of the vaccine strain
Spread of the vaccine strain from vaccinated to unvaccinated target animals shall be investigated, using the recommended route of administration most likely to result in the spread. Moreover, it may be necessary to investigate the spread to non-target animal species which could be highly susceptible to a live vaccine strain. An assessment of the number of animal-to-animal passages likely to occur under normal conditions of use and potential consequences shall be provided.
(2) Dissemination in the vaccinated animal
Faeces, urine, milk, eggs, oral, nasal and other secretions shall be tested for the presence of the organism as appropriate. Moreover, studies may be required of the dissemination of the vaccine strain in the body, with particular attention being paid to the predilection sites for replication of the organism. In the case of live vaccines for zoonoses within the meaning of Directive 2003/99/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council to be used for food producing animals, those studies shall take particularly into account the persistence of the organism at the injection site.
(3) Increase in virulence
Increase in or reversion to virulence shall be investigated with the master seed. If the master seed is not available in sufficient quantity the lowest passage seed used for the production shall be examined. Use of another passage option shall be justified. The initial vaccination shall be carried out using the route and method of administration most likely to lead to an increase in virulence indicative of reversion to virulence. Serial passages shall be made in target animals through five groups of animals, unless there is justification to make more passages or the organism disappears from the test animals sooner. Where the organism fails to replicate adequately, as many passages as possible shall be carried out in the target species.
(4) Biological properties of the vaccine strain
Other tests may be necessary to determine as precisely as possible the intrinsic biological properties of the vaccine strain (e.g. neurotropism).
For vaccines containing live genetically modified organism(s), where the product of a foreign gene is incorporated into the strain as a structural protein, the risk of changing the tropism or virulence of the strain shall be addressed and, where necessary, specific tests shall be conducted.
(5) Recombination or genomic reassortment of strains
The probability of recombination or genomic reassortment with field or other strains shall be evaluated and the consequences of such events discussed.
(7) |
User safety
This section shall include a discussion of the effects found in Part IIIb.3A to IIIb.3B and relate those effects to the type and extent of human exposure to the product with a view to formulating appropriate user warnings and other risk management measures. User safety shall be addressed in accordance with relevant guidance published by the Agency. |
(8) |
Interactions
If there is a compatibility statement with other veterinary medicinal products in the summary of product characteristics the safety of the association shall be investigated. Any other known interactions with veterinary medicinal products shall be described. |
IIIb.3C. Clinical trials
Unless otherwise justified, results from pre-clinical studies shall be supplemented with data from clinical trials, using batches representative of the manufacturing process described in the marketing authorisation application. Both safety and efficacy may be investigated in the same clinical trials.
IIIb.3D. Environmental risk assessment
(1) |
An environmental risk assessment shall be performed to assess the potential harmful effects, which the use of the veterinary medicinal product may cause to the environment and to identify the risk of such effects. The assessment shall also identify any precautionary measures which may be necessary to reduce such risk. |
(2) |
This assessment consists of two phases. The first phase of the assessment shall always be performed. The details of the assessment shall be provided in accordance with guidance published by the Agency. It shall indicate the potential exposure of the environment to the product and the level of risk associated with any such exposure, taking into account in particular the following items:
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(3) |
In the case of live vaccine strains which may be zoonotic, the risk to humans shall be assessed. |
(4) |
Where the conclusions of the first phase indicate a relevant potential risk for the environment of the product, the applicant shall proceed to the second phase and evaluate the potential risk(s) that the veterinary medicinal product might pose to the environment. Where necessary, further investigations on the impact of the product (soil, water, air, aquatic systems, non-target organisms) shall be carried out. |
(5) |
For DNA vaccines, a specific safety concern is the potential risk of migration of the DNA to gonadal tissues and potential DNA transfer into germ line cells of vaccinated male and female animals and thus potential transmission to offspring. The applicant shall evaluate and discuss potential risk(s) such immunological veterinary medicinal products might pose on human health and the environment (including plants and animals). If potential risk(s) are identified, investigations on the impact of the vaccine depending on its use in companion animals or in food producing animals shall be carried out to provide information on this point. |
IIIb.3E. Assessment required for veterinary medicinal products containing or consisting of genetically modified organisms
(1) |
In the case of veterinary medicinal products containing or consisting of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) the application shall also be accompanied by the documents required under Article 2 and Part C of Directive 2001/18/EC and the specific guidance dealing with GMOs. |
(2) |
Potential adverse effects on human health and the environment, which may occur through gene transfer from GMOs to other organisms or arise from genetic modifications, shall be accurately assessed on a case-by-case basis. The objective of such an environmental risk assessment is, to identify and evaluate potential direct and indirect, immediate or delayed adverse effects of the GMO on human health and the environment (including plants and animals) and shall be carried out in accordance with the principles of Annex II to Directive 2001/18/EC. |
IIIb.3F. Residue tests to be included in the pre-clinical studies
(1) |
For immunological veterinary medicinal products, it will normally not be necessary to undertake a study of residues. |
(2) |
Where antibiotics, adjuvants, preservatives or any other excipient are used in the manufacture of immunological veterinary medicinal products intended for food producing animals and/or are included in the final formulation, consideration shall be given to the possibility of consumer exposure to residues in foodstuffs derived from treated animals and compliance with MRLs legislation. Consumer safety implications arising from their potential presence in the finished product shall be addressed. |
(3) |
In the case of live vaccines for well-established zoonotic diseases, in addition to the studies of dissemination, the determination of residual vaccine organisms at the injection site may be required. If necessary, the effects of such residues shall be investigated. |
(4) |
A proposal for a withdrawal period shall be made and its adequacy shall be discussed in relation to any residue studies which have been undertaken. |
IIIb.4. Part 4: Efficacy documentation (pre-clinical studies and clinical trial(s))
IIIb.4A. General requirements
(1) |
The following general requirements shall be complied with:
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(2) |
In general, pre-clinical studies shall be supported by trials carried out in field conditions.
When pre-clinical studies fully support the claims made in the summary of product characteristics, trials carried out in field conditions are not required. Unless otherwise justified, results from pre-clinical studies shall be supplemented with data from clinical trials, using batches representative of the manufacturing process described in the marketing authorisation application. Both safety and efficacy may be investigated in the same clinical trials. |
(3) |
All trials shall be described in sufficient detail so as to be properly assessed by the competent authorities. The validity of all techniques used in the trial shall be demonstrated. |
(4) |
All results obtained, whether favourable or unfavourable, shall be reported:
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IIIb.4B. Pre-clinical studies
(1) |
In principle, demonstration of efficacy shall be undertaken under well-controlled laboratory conditions by challenge after administration of the immunological veterinary medicinal product to the target animal under the recommended conditions of use. Insofar as possible, the conditions under which the challenge is carried out shall reflect the natural conditions for infection. Details of the challenge strain and its relevance shall be provided. |
(2) |
For live vaccines, the product used for efficacy testing shall be taken from a batch or batches containing the minimum titre or potency. For other products, product from batches containing the minimum active content or potency expected at the end of the period of validity shall be used, unless otherwise justified. |
(3) |
If possible, the immune mechanism (cell-mediated/humoral, local/general classes of immunoglobulin) which is initiated after the administration of the immunological veterinary medicinal product to target animals by the recommended route of administration shall be specified and documented. |
(4) |
The following shall be provided for all pre-clinical studies:
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