ALMATICA PHARMA LLC – FDA CRL

The FDA issued a Complete Response Letter (CRL) to Almatica Pharma, LLC regarding its New Drug Application (NDA 215721) for zolpidem tartrate capsules, submitted under section 505(b)(2) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. The agency determined the application cannot be approved in its current form due to several significant deficiencies.

Key issues identified relate to product quality, specifically concerning unidentified impurities. Almatica Pharma is required to provide updated release and stability specifications, validated analytical methods, and data from at least three drug product batches demonstrating that impurity levels do not exceed allowable daily intakes. A commitment to continued monitoring of these impurities throughout the product's shelf-life is also necessary.

Labeling deficiencies include the need to add a specific bolded statement about the Medication Guide to carton and container labeling, as mandated by 21 CFR 208.24(d). While comments on other proposed labeling (prescribing information, carton/container) are reserved, the FDA advises reviewing relevant labeling resources and submitting all updated content in Structured Product Labeling (SPL) format.

Furthermore, the FDA requires a comprehensive safety update, in accordance with 21 CFR 314.50(d)(5)(vi)(b). This update must detail any significant changes in the safety profile, integrate new clinical safety data with updated adverse event tabulations, include case report forms for serious adverse events or deaths, and provide worldwide safety experience, including English translations of any foreign labeling.

Almatica Pharma must fully address all identified deficiencies and resubmit the application within one year as a complete response. Failure to do so may lead to the application's withdrawal under 21 CFR 314.65. The company may also request a meeting to discuss the necessary steps for approval. The drug product cannot be legally marketed until written approval is received from the FDA.