CDSCO License for Stoma drainage catheter
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
A sterile flexible tube that is inserted into a stoma (an artificial opening in the body, especially in the abdominal wall, made during a surgical procedure) to drain bodily waste from an internal stoma container; normally directly into the toilet.

Comprehensive Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Stoma Drainage Catheters (Class B Medical Device)
Stoma drainage catheters are specialized sterile, flexible tubes designed to drain bodily waste from an internal stoma, usually directing waste into the toilet. Belonging to the gastroenterology category, these devices are critical for patients requiring stoma care post-surgery. Given their direct impact on patient health, regulatory compliance under the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) is paramount for manufacturers and importers targeting the Indian market.
With over 25 years of experience assisting 500+ medical device companies, we provide you with an in-depth, practical roadmap to obtaining CDSCO licenses specifically for stoma drainage catheters, classified as Class B devices.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Stoma Drainage Catheters
The CDSCO governs the import, manufacture, and sale of medical devices in India, classifying devices based on risk into Class A, B, C, or D. Stoma drainage catheters, falling under Class B, are considered low to moderate risk. This classification influences the licensing route, documentation, and audit requirements.
For Class B devices, manufacturers require an MD5 manufacturing license, granted by the State Licensing Authority, while importers must obtain an MD15 import license from the Central Licensing Authority.
To begin your licensing journey, submit applications via the CDSCO MD Online Portal, ensuring compliance with all stipulated requirements.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Stoma Drainage Catheters
As per the notification 29/Misc./03/2020-DC (182) dated 27.09.2021, stoma drainage catheters are classified as Class B devices. This means:
- Manufacturing License: MD5 license (Application Form MD3) through the State Licensing Authority.
- Import License: MD15 license via the Central Licensing Authority.
Understanding this classification is crucial to navigating the regulatory landscape effectively. For more on device classifications, see our detailed Medical Device Classification guide.
Manufacturing License Process (MD5) for Stoma Drainage Catheters
The manufacturing license process for Class B devices is methodical and involves several steps:
Test License (Form MD13): Apply for a test license which allows manufacturing for testing purposes. This step takes approximately 1.5 to 2 months.
Product Testing: Obtain product testing from CDSCO-approved testing laboratories. Refer to the list of testing laboratories for recognized centers.
Document Preparation: Compile comprehensive documents including Device Master File and Plant Master File.
License Application (Form MD3): Submit the manufacturing license application through the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Audit by Notified Body: An audit by a notified body is conducted to verify compliance. View the list of notified bodies authorized for Class B device audits.
Query Resolution: Address any queries raised by the licensing authority or notified body.
Grant of License (Form MD5): Upon successful compliance, the manufacturing license is granted.
The entire process from test license to final grant generally takes 3 to 4 months.
For a step-by-step walkthrough, our MD5 License Guide offers practical insights.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for Stoma Drainage Catheters
Meticulous documentation is critical to smooth license approval. Required documents include:
- Company Constitution (e.g., partnership deed, memorandum of association)
- Proof of Ownership or Lease of Premises
- Technical Staff Credentials: Qualifications and experience details
- Fire No Objection Certificate (NOC)
- Pollution Control Board NOC
- Device Master File (DMF): Detailed device description, manufacturing process, and specifications. Our Device Master File Guide covers preparation tips.
- Plant Master File (PMF): Details of manufacturing facility and quality control practices. See our Plant Master File Guide.
- Essential Principles Checklist confirming compliance with regulatory standards
- Risk Management File: Addressing potential device risks per standards. Learn more about Medical Device Risk Management.
- Product Test Reports from CDSCO-approved labs
- Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System (QMS) Documents (e.g., ISO 13485 certificates)
Ensuring all documents are accurate, complete, and professionally presented can significantly reduce approval delays.
Import License Process (MD15) for Stoma Drainage Catheters
Importers of stoma drainage catheters must obtain an MD15 license from the CDSCO Central Licensing Authority. The process includes:
Document Preparation: Assemble all required documents as per CDSCO guidelines.
Submission of Application (Form MD14): File the import license application through the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Query Resolution: Promptly respond to any clarifications requested by CDSCO.
Grant of License (Form MD15): Once all requirements are met, the import license is issued.
Unlike manufacturing, no test license is required prior to import license application.
The total timeline for import license approval typically spans 5 to 6 months.
For deeper insights, refer to our Import License Guide.
Import License Documents Required for Stoma Drainage Catheters
Key documents include:
- Valid Manufacturing License from the country of origin
- Free Sale Certificate from the exporting country
- ISO 13485:2016 Quality Management System Certificate
- CE Certificate (if applicable)
- Device Master File
- Plant Master File
- Wholesale License (if applicable)
- Company Constitution documents
Ensuring these documents are current and properly attested will ease the approval process.
Timeline and Processing Duration
License Type | Timeline |
---|---|
Test License (MD13) | 1.5 - 2 months |
Manufacturing License (MD5) | 3 - 4 months (including test license and audit) |
Import License (MD15) | 5 - 6 months |
Planning ahead by starting the test license and testing phase early is advisable to meet market entry deadlines.
Government Fees and Costs
License Type | Fees |
---|---|
MD5 Manufacturing License | Rs 5,000 (application) + Rs 500 per product |
MD15 Import License | Class B: 1,000 per product |
Note that additional costs include testing fees, audit charges by notified bodies, and documentation preparation. Budgeting for these expenses upfront helps avoid surprises.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Delays in Testing: Scheduling and receiving test reports from government-approved labs can be time-consuming. We recommend early booking and follow-ups with labs.
Incomplete Documentation: Missing or inconsistent files cause query loops. Utilize detailed checklists and expert review before submission.
Audit Non-compliance: Not meeting audit standards leads to re-inspections and delays. Pre-audit mock inspections and training your technical staff can mitigate risks.
Regulatory Updates: Frequent amendments to CDSCO regulations can cause confusion. Staying updated through official notifications and expert consultations is essential.
Expert Consultation and Support
Navigating CDSCO licensing can be complex, especially for specialized devices like stoma drainage catheters. Our experienced consultants have successfully guided over 500 companies through licensing, testing, and audits.
We offer tailored support including:
- Gap analysis of your documents and processes
- Liaison with notified bodies and testing labs
- End-to-end application management on the CDSCO MD Online Portal
- Training for your technical and regulatory teams
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
Assess Device Classification: Confirm your stoma drainage catheter is Class B.
Prepare Documentation: Begin compiling your Device Master File, Plant Master File, QMS documents, and product testing plans.
Apply for Test License (MD13): Initiate manufacturing for testing purposes, allowing you to get product samples tested.
Select Testing Laboratory: Choose a government-approved lab from the official Testing Laboratories list.
Schedule Audit: Contact a notified body for the required audit. Refer to the Notified Bodies list.
Submit Application via CDSCO Portal: Use the CDSCO MD Online Portal to file your application forms (MD3 for manufacturing, MD14 for import).
Track and Respond Promptly: Monitor your application status and address queries swiftly to avoid delays.
Starting early and partnering with experienced consultants will dramatically increase your chances of timely CDSCO license approval, enabling you to bring your stoma drainage catheter to the Indian market efficiently and compliantly.
For personalized assistance and detailed project planning, contact us today and leverage our 25+ years of regulatory expertise to successfully launch your Class B stoma drainage catheter in India.