CDSCO License for Suprapubic Catheter
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
A suprapubic catheter is a thin, sterile tube used to drain urine from bladder.

Comprehensive Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Suprapubic Catheters (Class B)
Suprapubic catheters are essential medical devices designed to drain urine directly from the bladder using a thin, sterile tube inserted through the abdominal wall. Classified under Class B risk by CDSCO, these catheters fall within the catheter category and require a meticulous regulatory approach to enter the Indian market legally. With our 25+ years of expertise and successful track record assisting over 500 companies, we provide a detailed roadmap for obtaining the mandatory CDSCO manufacturing license (MD5) for Suprapubic Catheters.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Suprapubic Catheters
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) regulates all medical devices in India under the Medical Device Rules, 2017. Suprapubic catheters, notified under 29/Misc/3/2017-DC (292) on 06.06.2018, are categorized as Class B devices due to moderate risk associated with their use.
Manufacturers must comply with the provisions laid down by CDSCO, including quality management, testing, and audits, to obtain licenses before commercializing these devices. The state-level licensing authority issues the manufacturing license (MD5) for Class A and B devices.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Suprapubic Catheters
As a Class B device, Suprapubic Catheters require an MD5 manufacturing license under Form MD3. This license ensures adherence to safety, efficacy, and quality standards appropriate for moderate-risk devices. Importers will need an MD15 license, but this guide focuses on domestic manufacturers.
Key points for Class B devices:
- License Type: MD5 (Manufacturing License)
- Issued By: State Licensing Authority
- Risk Class: Moderate (Class B)
- Process Duration: Approximately 3-4 months
- Fees: ₹5,000 per application + ₹500 per product
Manufacturing License Process (MD5) for Suprapubic Catheters
The MD5 license process involves several sequential steps that manufacturers must carefully follow:
- Test License (Form MD13): Apply for a test license to manufacture samples for validation and testing. This stage takes about 1.5 to 2 months.
- Product Testing: Submit samples to CDSCO-approved government testing laboratories. Testing validates compliance with essential principles.
- Document Preparation: Compile comprehensive documentation including Device Master File, Plant Master File, Risk Management File, and QMS documents.
- License Application (Form MD3): After successful testing, submit the manufacturing license application via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Audit by Notified Body: A notified body conducts an on-site audit of manufacturing facilities and quality systems. Check the list of notified bodies to select an authorized auditor.
- Query Resolution: Address any queries raised by the state licensing authority or notified body promptly.
- License Grant (Form MD5): Upon successful audit and document review, the MD5 license is issued.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for Suprapubic Catheters
Thorough documentation is critical to obtain the MD5 license. Essential documents include:
- Company Constitution and Incorporation Certificate
- Proof of Ownership or Lease of Manufacturing Premises
- Details and Qualification Certificates of Technical Staff
- Fire NOC and Pollution Control Board NOC
- Device Master File (DMF) detailing design, specifications, and manufacturing process (See our Device Master File guide)
- Plant Master File (PMF) outlining manufacturing facility details (Refer to Plant Master File guide)
- Essential Principles Checklist conforming to the Medical Device Rules
- Risk Management File documenting hazard analysis and mitigation (Learn more about Risk Management)
- Test Reports from government-approved labs (List of Testing Laboratories)
- Product labels, packaging, and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System (QMS) documents, typically ISO 13485:2016 certification
Import License Process (MD15) for Suprapubic Catheters
While this guide focuses on manufacturing, importers of Suprapubic Catheters must obtain an MD15 import license. The process requires:
- Submission of manufacturing license of the foreign manufacturer
- Free Sale Certificate from the country of origin
- ISO 13485:2016 and CE Certificate
- Device Master File and Plant Master File
- Wholesale license and company constitution
The MD15 license is granted by the Central Licensing Authority and typically takes 5-6 months, with costs depending on device class. For complete details, refer to our Import License guide.
Timeline and Processing Duration
For Suprapubic Catheters (Class B), expect the following approximate timelines:
Step | Duration |
---|---|
Test License (MD13) | 1.5 - 2 months |
Product Testing | 3-4 weeks |
Document Preparation | 2-3 weeks |
Application Submission | Immediate once docs ready |
Audit and Inspection | 4-6 weeks |
Query Resolution & Approval | 2-3 weeks |
Total Duration | 3-4 months |
Planning ahead and preparing documents meticulously can help avoid delays.
Government Fees and Costs
The fee structure for Class B devices under MD5 license is:
- Application Fee: ₹5,000 per application
- Product Fee: ₹500 per product
Additional costs may include:
- Testing fees charged by government-approved labs
- Notified body audit fees
- Consultancy fees if opting for expert assistance
Budgeting accurately for these elements is crucial to avoid surprises.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge 1: Delays in Sample Testing
- Solution: Submit samples promptly to government-approved labs and track progress actively.
Challenge 2: Incomplete Documentation
- Solution: Use detailed checklists and expert review to ensure all documents meet CDSCO requirements.
Challenge 3: Audit Non-Compliance
- Solution: Conduct internal pre-audits and staff training to prepare for notified body inspections.
Challenge 4: Query Resolution Delays
- Solution: Respond quickly and comprehensively to queries, providing supporting evidence.
Expert Consultation and Support
Navigating the CDSCO licensing process for Suprapubic Catheters can be complex. Our team has guided 500+ companies through successful MD5 license acquisition by providing:
- Tailored regulatory strategy
- Comprehensive document preparation support
- Coordination with notified bodies and testing labs
- Training and pre-audit assessment
Engaging expert consultants can significantly reduce approval time and improve compliance.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
To initiate your MD5 manufacturing license application for Suprapubic Catheters:
- Register your company on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Apply for the test license (Form MD13) and prepare samples for testing.
- Identify suitable government-approved testing laboratories and notified bodies for audit.
- Begin compiling your Device Master File, Plant Master File, and Risk Management File.
- Develop a robust Quality Management System aligned with ISO 13485:2016.
- Plan your timeline realistically, allocating buffer periods for unforeseen delays.
By following this structured approach, manufacturers can efficiently fulfill regulatory obligations and bring Suprapubic Catheters to the Indian market with confidence.
For further guidance and hands-on support, feel free to consult our detailed MD5 License Guide and connect with our expert team.