The Responsible Person (RP) on a UK Wholesale Distribution Authorisation (WDA) for pharmaceuticals has specific responsibilities to ensure that imported pharmaceutical products are distributed in compliance with Good Distribution Practice (GDP) and regulatory requirements. Here are the key requirements and responsibilities for the RP on a UK WDA:

  1. Qualifications and Experience: The RP must have the appropriate qualifications, experience, and expertise in pharmaceutical importation, distribution, and regulatory compliance. They should understand the intricacies of the pharmaceutical supply chain and relevant regulations.
  2. License and Appointment: The RP must be officially appointed by the organisation holding the WDA and must be named on the license. This appointment should be documented and communicated to regulatory authorities.
  3. Quality Assurance and Compliance: Ensure that all imported pharmaceutical products comply with UK and EU regulatory requirements, including marketing authorisations, labeling, and packaging. The RP is responsible for verifying the authenticity and accuracy of importation-related documentation.
  4. Supplier Qualification: Establish and maintain a robust supplier qualification program to assess and monitor the compliance of foreign suppliers with GDP and quality standards. This includes conducting supplier audits, reviewing quality agreements, and assessing the supplier’s ability to meet temperature control requirements when necessary.
  5. Risk Management: Implement a risk management program to identify and mitigate risks associated with pharmaceutical imports. This includes assessing risks related to transportation, storage conditions, and product integrity.
  6. Importation Records: Maintain accurate and complete records of all imported pharmaceutical products, including records of product receipt, storage conditions, transportation, and any deviations from standard procedures.
  7. Storage and Handling: Ensure that imported pharmaceuticals are stored and handled in accordance with GDP, including proper temperature control requirements for products that require it.
  8. Complaint Handling and Product Recall: Develop and implement procedures for handling complaints related to imported products and for initiating product recalls if necessary. The RP should be prepared to take immediate action in case of quality or safety concerns.
  9. Auditing and Self-Inspection: Conduct regular audits and self-inspections of the importation processes and facilities to identify and rectify any non-compliance issues. Implement corrective and preventive actions as needed.
  10. Communication with Regulatory Authorities: Maintain open and transparent communication with regulatory authorities, including the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the UK. The RP should be prepared to provide information and documentation as requested during inspections and investigations.
  11. Customs and Import Declarations: Ensure that customs declarations and importation procedures comply with pharmaceutical regulations and customs requirements. The RP should collaborate closely with customs authorities to facilitate the import process.
  12. Training and Competency of Personnel: Ensure that all personnel involved in importation activities receive appropriate training and possess the necessary competencies to perform their roles effectively and in compliance with GDP.
  13. Change Control: Implement a robust change control process to assess and manage changes in the importation process, including changes in suppliers, importation routes, or storage facilities.
  14. Post-Market Surveillance: Monitor the safety and quality of imported products in the market and take appropriate actions in case of adverse events or quality issues.

The RP plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and quality of imported pharmaceutical products. Compliance with these requirements is essential to maintain regulatory approval and to ensure the integrity of the pharmaceutical supply chain. Organisations involved in pharmaceutical imports should select an RP with the necessary qualifications and expertise to fulfill these responsibilities effectively.

 

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