Current Practices of Process Validation for Drug Substances and Intermediates

Process validation includes laboratory optimization, pilot-plant introduction, and process implementation on manufacturing scale, as well as monitoring batches after implementation and continuously improving the manufacturing processes. There are many opportunities to change and optimize operations. The background information in this contribution describes current guidance and terminology for validation, including the integration of validation over the development lifecycle of drug substances. Various examples illustrate challenges and success stories of implementation as part of the overall approach to process validation.