Requirements from regulatory agencies have become increasingly rigorous with regards to the detection, identification, and quantitation of extractable and leachable compounds in pharmaceuticals, drug delivery systems, and biomedical devices. This heightened scrutiny is the result of several well‐documented incidents of contaminants leaching from containers and packaging, causing potential or real risk to humans. Therefore, regulatory agencies, such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Evaluation Agency (EMEA), have increased regulations on potential extractables and leachables in drug product container and closure systems.

The study of extractables and leachables is among the fastest-evolving disciplines in the pharmaceutical industry. Until recently, the primary focus of these studies has been components in direct contact with the drug product for extended periods, such as the primary packaging, or those that contact the formulation during administration, known as in-use componentry. However, the components used in manufacturing are of increasing interest as sources of potential leachables. Many components are single-use systems (SUS), polymeric in construction, and pre-treated prior to use. Each of these factors increase the potential for leachable compounds. In order to evaluate materials for potential leachable compounds, one must leverage a scientifically rigorous study design against the specific potential for drug product and packaging/surface interaction. 

Regulatory agencies have become increasingly rigorous with regards to the detection, identification and quantification of extractable and leachable compounds in pharmaceuticals, drug delivery systems and biomedical devices. This increased scrutiny is the result of several well-documented incidents of contaminants leaching from containers and packaging, resulting in a potential or real risk to humans. 

Alcami has recently authored a white paper on extractables and leachables testing in the pharmaceutical industry.

Requirements from regulatory agencies have become increasingly rigorous, with regards to the detection, dentification and quantification of extractable and chable compounds in pharmaceuticals, drug delivery systems and biomedical devices. This increased scrutiny is the result of several well-documented incidents of contaminants leaching from containers and packaging, resulting in a potential or real risk to humans.  As a result, regulatory agencies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Evaluation Agency (EMEA), have increased regulations on potential extractables and leachables in drug product container and closure systems.