CDSCO License for Suprapubic, non- disposable Cannula
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
an emergency measure for the relief of acute urinary retention or condition which require temporary and permanent drainage of bladder.

Introduction: Understanding Suprapubic Non-Disposable Cannula and Its Regulatory Importance
The suprapubic, non-disposable cannula is a critical medical device designed to provide emergency relief for acute urinary retention and facilitate temporary or permanent bladder drainage. As a Class B catheter under the Indian regulatory framework, this device requires diligent adherence to CDSCO licensing protocols to ensure patient safety and compliance with national standards. With over 25 years of experience and having guided more than 500 companies, we understand the nuances involved in obtaining the necessary approvals for this vital device.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Suprapubic Non-Disposable Cannula
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) governs the licensing and regulation of medical devices in India. The suprapubic non-disposable cannula falls under Class B risk classification, which typically includes devices posing moderate risk to patients. The regulatory pathway involves obtaining a manufacturing license (MD5) from the State Licensing Authority, alongside mandatory testing and audits.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Class B Devices
Class B devices like the suprapubic cannula are medium-risk and require a Manufacturing License under Form MD3, leading to an MD5 license grant. Before the manufacturing license application, a test license (Form MD13) must be obtained for product testing in government-approved laboratories. The licensing authority will assess the product’s safety, efficacy, and compliance with essential principles.
For a detailed understanding of device classification, manufacturers can refer to the Medical Device Classification guide.
Manufacturing License Process (MD5) for Suprapubic Non-Disposable Cannula
The MD5 license process is comprehensive and involves several key steps:
Apply for Test License (Form MD13): Submit application via the CDSCO MD Online Portal. This process takes approximately 1.5 to 2 months.
Product Testing: Conduct testing at government-approved laboratories listed on the CDSCO Testing Laboratories page. Testing ensures compliance with Indian standards and essential principles.
Documentation Preparation: Compile all required documentation including Device Master File, Plant Master File, Risk Management File, and others detailed below.
Submit Manufacturing License Application (Form MD3): File your application on the CDSCO portal for the MD5 license.
Audit by Notified Body: Engage with an accredited notified body for an audit of manufacturing facilities and quality systems. You can check the list of notified bodies for suitable auditors.
Resolve Queries: Address any questions or deficiencies raised by the CDSCO or notified bodies promptly.
Grant of MD5 License: Once compliance is verified, the license is granted on Form MD5.
The entire process generally takes 3 to 4 months from test license application to final license grant.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for Suprapubic Cannula
To streamline your application, ensure you have the following documents prepared:
- Company Constitution (Incorporation Certificate, MOA, AOA)
- Proof of Ownership or Lease of Manufacturing Premises
- Technical Staff Qualification and Experience Details
- Fire NOC and Pollution Control NOC
- Device Master File (DMF): Detailed device specifications, design, manufacturing processes. Our Device Master File guide can help you prepare this effectively.
- Plant Master File (PMF): Information on manufacturing facilities and quality systems. Learn how to create one in our Plant Master File guide.
- Essential Principles Checklist confirming adherence to safety and performance standards
- Risk Management File following ISO 14971 principles, tailored for the suprapubic cannula. For insights, visit our Risk Management guide.
- Test Reports from government-approved labs
- Labels and Instructions For Use (IFU) compliant with Indian regulations
- Quality Management System (QMS) Documentation such as ISO 13485 certificates and SOPs
Import License Process (MD15) for Suprapubic Non-Disposable Cannula
If you plan to import this device into India, an Import License under Form MD14 leading to MD15 grant is required from the Central Licensing Authority. The process includes:
- Document preparation including manufacturing license from the country of origin, Free Sale Certificate, ISO 13485:2016, CE Certificate, Device Master File, and Plant Master File.
- Application submission through the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Resolution of queries raised by CDSCO.
- Final grant of Import License (Form MD15).
The import license process generally takes 5 to 6 months. For more detailed guidance, refer to our Import License guide.
Import License Documents Required
- Valid Manufacturing License from the exporting country
- Free Sale Certificate or Equivalent
- ISO 13485:2016 Certification
- CE Certificate or equivalent approval documents
- Device Master File & Plant Master File
- Wholesale License (if applicable)
- Company Constitution and other organizational documents
Timeline and Processing Duration
Process Step | Timeline |
---|---|
Test License (MD13) | 1.5 - 2 months |
Product Testing | 1 - 1.5 months |
Documentation Preparation | Concurrent or 1 month |
Manufacturing License (MD5) | 1 - 1.5 months |
Total Duration | Approximately 3 - 4 months |
This timeline assumes proactive document preparation and timely responses to queries.
Government Fees and Costs
- Test License (MD13): Included within overall fees
- MD5 Manufacturing License Application: Rs 5,000 per application
- Product Fee: Rs 500 per product (for suprapubic non-disposable cannula)
Additional costs may include:
- Notified body audit fees (varies by auditor)
- Testing laboratory charges
- Consultancy or legal fees if engaging experts
Common Challenges and Solutions
Delayed Test Reports: Engage early with government-approved labs and schedule testing promptly to avoid bottlenecks.
Incomplete Documentation: Leverage checklists and templates for Device Master File and Plant Master File to ensure all aspects are covered.
Audit Non-Compliance: Prepare for audits by maintaining robust QMS and training your staff on CDSCO expectations.
Query Resolution Delays: Assign dedicated personnel to monitor and respond to CDSCO queries swiftly.
Understanding Risk Classification: Misclassification can delay approvals; consult the Medical Device Classification resource for accuracy.
Expert Consultation and Support
Navigating the CDSCO licensing landscape for a specialized device like the suprapubic non-disposable cannula requires expertise. Our team has successfully assisted over 500 manufacturers and importers in obtaining MD5 licenses efficiently. We provide tailored support including document preparation, audit readiness, and liaison with CDSCO officials to expedite your approval.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
Register on the CDSCO MD Online Portal: This is your gateway for submitting all applications and correspondence.
Initiate Test License Application (Form MD13): Start early to accommodate testing timelines.
Engage with Testing Laboratories: Coordinate with accredited labs for timely product evaluation.
Prepare Comprehensive Documentation: Utilize our guides for Device and Plant Master Files, Risk Management, and QMS.
Identify a Notified Body for Audit: Choose from the CDSCO Notified Bodies List and schedule your audit.
Submit Manufacturing License Application (Form MD3): Once tests and documents are ready, apply for the MD5 license.
Monitor Application Progress and Respond Promptly: Assign a project lead to handle queries and communications.
By following these actionable steps, manufacturers and importers of suprapubic non-disposable cannulas can confidently navigate the CDSCO licensing process, ensuring timely market entry and regulatory compliance.