Anyone Can Enter Into a Quality Agreement, It's the Hold: FDA Issues a Warning Letter Referencing Lack of Quality Oversight

Many of us remember the classic comedy bit on the Seinfeld television show where Jerry was unable to secure the rental car for which he had made a reservation. He tells the agent:

For reasons to be discussed, this sketch came to mind when reviewing a Warning Letter that the Food and Drug Administration issued to a pharmaceutical contract manufacturer for non compliance with Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs).

FDA’s Warning Letter primarily focused on the CGMP issues. However, of note here was the agency’s reference to quality agreements. FDA stated:

The agency continued that, while a quality agreement may help maximize compliance, the drug company sponsor is ultimately responsible for ensuring the safe manufacture of the final product released. Specifically, FDA noted:

FDA cited its guidance document, ”Contract Manufacturing Arrangements for Drugs: Quality Agreements,” about which we have written. In addition, interestingly, the agency copied the drug company’s Chief Operating Officer, signaling the agency was holding the non-contract manufacturer accountable as well.

AGG Observations

FDA essentially said that, while it was good there was a quality agreement, “regardless of this agreement,” non-compliance occurred. Or, in Seinfeld terms, anyone can enter into a quality agreement. It’s the implementation, execution, and follow-up. The parties failed to execute and, thus, both bore responsibility.

Related, we have written and advised clients on quality agreements. We have drafted such agreements. They are useful to have and FDA expects them. We continue to recommend them, but they do not exonerate either the contract manufacturer or the drug company sponsor if there is non-compliance. They are merely a roadmap to maximize compliance; failure to use them properly or not providing for oversight to ensure the quality-related conditions are followed merely make the agreement a bunch of words. In addition, as the Warning Letter illustrates, FDA will hold both parties accountable.

Companies may want to re review existing quality agreements to make sure there are provisions for the drug company to audit and monitor its contract manufacturer’s facility. Furthermore, if there are quality-related concerns, the drug sponsor must take steps to help achieve compliance. The drug company cannot merely rely on the other side’s promise to meet quality standards. There must be verifiable trust and prompt corrective action taken, if needed. It’s not only the “take”; it’s the “hold,” because FDA will “hold” everyone responsible if there is non compliance.