Skip to main content Skip to search Skip to main navigation

EMA: Updated Q&A on Nitrosamines 2024

The EMA has updated its Q&A document on nitrosamine impurities in human medicinal products. In collaboration with the Heads of Medicines Agencies (HMA) responses to six questions were revised. Specifically, EMA updated one answer to reflect its position on the acceptability of the Ames test and another to clarify responsibilities concerning active substance master files and the certification of suitability.

Five responses were modified to "clarify expectations for risk assessments, confirmatory testing, and dossier requirements for products where nitrosamine impurities can be controlled according to ICH Q3A/B limits." These ICH principles guide the control of nitrosamine impurities.

"For products where nitrosamine impurities can be controlled according to ICH Q3A/B principles, see Q&A 10, confirmatory testing is generally not needed if the risk can be sufficiently mitigated based on scientific considerations that demonstrate the relevant ICH Q3A/B thresholds will not be exceeded," EMA stated.


Source:

EMA: Questions and answers for marketing authorisation holders/applicants on the CHMP Opinion for the Article 5(3) of Regulation (EC) No 726/2004 referral on nitrosamine impurities in human medicinal products – Rev. 21

Meet the GMP Compliance Adviser

The GMP Compliance Adviser is the world's largest knowledge portal for quality management in the pharma business. 

The demo access is non-binding and ends automatically.

Test it now for free

You may also be Interested in the Following Articles:

What is a gas?

What is a gas?

You can view the answer here:
Read more
EMA: Pilot Programme for Breakthrough Devices

EMA: Pilot Programme for Breakthrough Devices

The EMA plans to launch a pilot programme in Q2 2026 to implement the guidance for breakthrough devices issued in December 2025.

Read more
EDQM: New Ph. Eur. Chapter on Data Quality with a Focus on Digital Data

EDQM: New Ph. Eur. Chapter on Data Quality with a Focus on Digital Data

The European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.) has introduced a new general chapter that provides a framework for managing the quality of data, including digital data, throughout its life cycle.

Read more
PIC/S: Jordan FDA Joins PIC/S

PIC/S: Jordan FDA Joins PIC/S

On 1 January 2026, the Jordan Food & Drug Administration (JFDA) became the 57th PIC/S Participating Authority.

Read more
Swissmedic: Scientific GMDP Meetings

Swissmedic: Scientific GMDP Meetings

Swissmedic offers companies holding or seeking a Swissmedic manufacturing or distribution license the opportunity to discuss project-specific GMP and GDP topics in Scientific GMDP Meetings.

Read more
Purified Water – The new Chinese Pharmacopoeias and What Happens Next?

Purified Water – The new Chinese Pharmacopoeias and What Happens Next?

A new Chinese Pharmacopoeia was published in 2025. This has some significant implications for the pharmaceutical water industry, which we will discuss in more detail in this article. Firstly, it is important to note that cold WFI systems are now permitted worldwide and can be used across the board.
Read more
Previous
Next