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QMS tools used in pharmaceutical industry

In the pharmaceutical industry, Quality Management System (QMS) tools are critical for ensuring product safety, efficacy, and compliance with regulatory standards like those from the FDA, EMA, or WHO. Here are the key QMS tools commonly used:



1. Document Control
Manages SOPs, batch records, validation protocols, etc.
Ensures only current, approved documents are in use.

2. Change Control
Manages and documents changes to processes, equipment, or materials.
Ensures changes are reviewed, validated, and approved.


3. CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Action)
Identifies root causes of deviations or non-conformances.
Implements actions to correct and prevent recurrence.

4. Deviation Management
Tracks and investigates process deviations.
Assesses impact on product quality and patient safety.

5. Risk Management (ICH Q9)
Identifies and mitigates risks throughout the product lifecycle.
Tools: FMEA (Failure Mode Effects Analysis), HACCP.

6. Audit Management
Internal and external audits to verify compliance.
Tracks findings and follow-ups.

7. Training Management
Ensures staff are trained and competent.
Tracks training records and certifications.

8. Complaint Handling
Manages customer complaints.
Investigates and trends complaint data.

9. Quality Metrics & Continuous Improvement
Use of KPIs, trend analysis, and tools like Six Sigma.
Tools: Pareto charts, control charts, cause-and-effect diagrams.

10. Validation and Qualification
Ensures equipment, utilities, and processes perform as intended.
Includes IQ/OQ/PQ protocols.

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