CDSCO License for Temperature-monitoring indwelling urethral drainage catheter
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
A sterile, flexible tube with an inflatable balloon on its distal tip for retention in the urinary bladder, after its insertion through the urethra, where it functions as a long-term indwelling device for continuous urinary drainage and simultaneous monitoring of core body temperature through its integral temperature sensor, typically during or after surgery or in the presence of obstruction or paralysis.

Complete Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Temperature-Monitoring Indwelling Urethral Drainage Catheters (Class B)
As specialists with over 25 years of experience in medical device regulatory affairs, we understand the complexities involved in obtaining CDSCO licenses for innovative devices like the Temperature-monitoring Indwelling Urethral Drainage Catheter. This device, classified as Class B under the urology category, plays a critical role in patient care by combining continuous urinary drainage with real-time core body temperature monitoring.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Temperature-Monitoring Urethral Catheters
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) regulates medical devices in India to ensure safety, efficacy, and quality. For your urethral drainage catheter with temperature monitoring capabilities, compliance with the Medical Device Rules 2017 and subsequent notifications is mandatory. The device falls under Class B based on risk classification, requiring a manufacturing license (MD5) from the State Licensing Authority.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Class B Devices
Class B devices, such as this indwelling catheter, are considered low to moderate risk. The CDSCO mandates:
- Obtaining a Test License (Form MD13) before full manufacturing license application
- Product testing at government-approved laboratories
- Submission of comprehensive documentation including Device Master File and Plant Master File
- Audit by an accredited notified body
The entire licensing process for Class B devices typically spans 3-4 months.
Manufacturing License Process (MD5) for Class B Urethral Catheters
- Apply for Test License (Form MD13): This initial license permits product testing and validation. It usually takes 1.5 to 2 months for approval.
- Testing: Conduct product testing at CDSCO-recognized labs. You can find the list of testing laboratories here.
- Documentation Preparation: Prepare the Device Master File (DMF), Plant Master File (PMF), Quality Management System (QMS) documents, Risk Management File, and Essential Principles Checklist.
- Submit Manufacturing License Application (Form MD3): Apply through the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Audit: A notified body will perform an on-site audit. Refer to the list of notified bodies for selection.
- Query Resolution: Address any queries raised by CDSCO or the notified body promptly.
- License Grant: Upon satisfactory review and audit, the MD5 license will be granted.
Manufacturing License Documents Required
For your temperature-monitoring urethral catheter, ensure you have the following ready:
- Company constitution documents (e.g., Incorporation Certificate, PAN card)
- Proof of ownership or lease of manufacturing premises
- Details and qualifications of technical staff
- Fire and pollution clearance certificates
- Device Master File (covering design, materials, specifications, intended use, and manufacturing process) - see our Device Master File guide
- Plant Master File documenting the manufacturing facility - detailed in our Plant Master File guide
- Essential Principles Checklist confirming compliance with safety and performance standards
- Risk Management File demonstrating hazard assessment and mitigation strategies
- Test reports from CDSCO-approved labs
- Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU) complying with regulatory norms
- Quality Management System (QMS) documentation, preferably ISO 13485 certified
Import License Process (MD15) for Temperature-Monitoring Catheters
If you are an importer, the MD15 license is required, issued by the Central Licensing Authority. The process typically takes 5-6 months and involves:
- Preparing comprehensive documentation including manufacturing license from the country of origin, Free Sale Certificate, ISO 13485 certification, CE certificate if applicable, Device and Plant Master Files, and wholesale license
- Applying via Form MD14 on the CDSCO MD Online Portal
- Responding to departmental queries
- Receiving final approval and grant of the import license
Import License Documents Required
- Valid manufacturing license from the country of origin
- Free Sale Certificate
- ISO 13485:2016 certificate
- CE Certificate (if applicable)
- Device Master File and Plant Master File
- Wholesale license
- Company registration documents
Timeline and Processing Duration
Process Stage | Duration |
---|---|
Test License (MD13) Approval | 1.5 to 2 months |
Product Testing | 3 to 4 weeks |
Document Preparation | 3 to 4 weeks |
Application Review & Audit | 4 to 6 weeks |
Total Estimated Time (MD5 License) | Approximately 3 to 4 months |
For import licenses (MD15), anticipate approximately 5-6 months from application to approval.
Government Fees and Costs
For Class B devices like the temperature-monitoring catheter, the fee structure for manufacturing license (MD5) is:
- Application fee: INR 5,000
- Per product fee: INR 500
Additional costs to budget for:
- Product testing fees at government-approved labs
- Notified body audit charges (varies by body)
- Costs associated with document preparation and consultancy
For import licenses (MD15), fees vary by risk class and number of products; Class B devices typically have higher fees reflecting centralized processing.
Common Challenges and Solutions
1. Delays in Product Testing: Testing bottlenecks can delay your license. We recommend early booking with notified labs and pre-validating your samples to avoid rejections.
2. Documentation Gaps: Incomplete or inconsistent Device Master Files and Risk Management documentation frequently cause application queries. Engage regulatory experts to ensure compliance and coherence.
3. Audit Non-Conformities: Unpreparedness for notified body audits leads to delays. Conduct internal mock audits and rectify any identified issues beforehand.
4. Query Resolution Delays: Prompt and clear responses are crucial. Assign a dedicated regulatory liaison to handle CDSCO communications efficiently.
Expert Consultation and Support
Having supported over 500 companies in securing CDSCO licenses, we offer tailored consulting services including:
- Gap analysis for your existing documentation
- Preparing and reviewing Device and Plant Master Files
- Coordinating with notified bodies and testing labs
- End-to-end application management on the CDSCO MD Online Portal
- Training your team on regulatory compliance and audit readiness
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
To initiate your license application for the Temperature-monitoring Indwelling Urethral Drainage Catheter:
- Classify Your Device Correctly: Confirm Class B status and understand the regulatory implications. Use the Medical Device Classification resource.
- Apply for Test License (MD13): Submit your application via the CDSCO portal to enable product testing.
- Engage a Notified Body Early: Select an accredited notified body from the official list to plan your audit timelines.
- Prepare Required Documentation: Utilize our Device Master File guide and Plant Master File guide for comprehensive document creation.
- Schedule Product Testing: Coordinate with CDSCO-approved labs to complete testing promptly.
- Submit Manufacturing License Application (MD5): Once testing and documentation are complete, apply online.
- Prepare for Audit: Conduct internal audits and ensure compliance before the notified body visit.
By following these practical steps and leveraging our expertise, manufacturers and importers can successfully navigate the CDSCO licensing process for this critical urology device, ensuring timely entry into the Indian market with full regulatory compliance.
For detailed assistance, reach out to our regulatory team experienced in handling complex Class B devices like temperature-monitoring urethral drainage catheters.