What is a Letter of Designation? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

A letter of designation is a formal written notice issued by a product jurisdiction officer. It specifies which agency component holds primary responsibility for a combination product, as defined under 21 CFR 3.2. This designation is crucial in determining the regulatory pathway for products that may fall under the jurisdiction of multiple agencies, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A company develops a new product that combines a drug and a medical device. The product jurisdiction officer issues a letter of designation indicating that the FDA will oversee the product's regulation.

Example 2: A hypothetical example would be if a manufacturer creates a combination product that includes both a dietary supplement and a medical device. The letter of designation clarifies which agency will regulate the product.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Product Jurisdiction The determination of which agency regulates a specific product. A letter of designation is a specific outcome of this determination.
Combination Product A product that combines drugs, devices, or biological products. A letter of designation applies specifically to these types of products.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in the development or marketing of a combination product, ensure you obtain a letter of designation from the appropriate product jurisdiction officer. This document will clarify which agency you must work with for compliance. For assistance, consider using US Legal Forms to access templates that can help you navigate the necessary paperwork. If your situation is complex, consulting a legal professional may be advisable.

Quick facts

  • Issued by a product jurisdiction officer.
  • Essential for regulatory compliance of combination products.
  • Helps clarify agency responsibilities.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It is a formal notice that specifies which agency is responsible for regulating a combination product.