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Biologics Compliance Guide for Germany
This is a compliance guide for clinics that want to operate in Germany.
Key Pieces of Legislation:
1. Embryo Protection Act (Embryonenschutzgesetz - ESchG)
Enacted in 1990, this act regulates the handling of human embryos and gametes, prohibiting the derivation of embryonic stem cells from human embryos.
2. Stem Cell Act (Stammzellgesetz - StZG)
Enacted in 2002, this act gives priority to the use of adult stem cells and regulates the importation of embryonic stem cell lines under strict conditions
3. Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM)
This institute regulates the approval and marketing of stem cell therapies, ensuring compliance with safety and efficacy standards
4. Paul Ehrlich Institute (PEI)
This institute oversees the regulation of advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs), including stem cell therapies.
5. Central Ethics Commission for Stem Cell Research (ZES)
This commission reviews applications to import stem cell lines for research and ensures ethical oversight.
6. Embryo Protection Act (1990)
This act heavily restricts the use of embryos for research and makes the derivation of embryonic stem cell lines a criminal offense. Violations of this act can lead to legal action.
7. Stem Cell Act (2002)
This act gives priority to the use of adult stem cells and regulates the importation of embryonic stem cell lines under strict conditions. Non-compliance with this act can result in legal consequences.
8. Compliance Checklist
Compliance with the Stem Cell Act (Stammzellgesetz):
- Ensure adherence to the 2002 Stem Cell Act, which prioritizes the use of adult stem cells and regulates the importation of embryonic stem cell lines under strict conditions.
Approval from Regulatory Bodies:
- Obtain approval from the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) for the use of stem cell therapies.
- Ensure compliance with the Paul Ehrlich Institute (PEI) regulations for advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs).
Ethical Approval:
- Obtain approval from ethics committees for any stem cell therapy studies involving human subjects.
Informed Consent:
- Obtain informed consent from patients, clearly explaining the potential risks, benefits, and alternatives to the treatment.
Proper Handling and Storage:
- Follow proper protocols for the handling, storage, and administration of stem cells to maintain their viability and safety.
Documentation and Record-Keeping:
- Maintain detailed records of all stem cell treatments, including patient consent forms, treatment protocols, and outcomes.
Patient Safety and Monitoring:
- Implement safety measures and monitoring protocols to track patient responses and manage any adverse effects.
Insurance and Liability:
- Ensure that the clinic has appropriate insurance coverage for stem cell treatments and is aware of potential liability issues.
Stay Updated on Legal Changes:
- Regularly review and stay informed about any changes in federal, state, and local regulations regarding stem cell treatments.
9. Who can administer
- Doctors (General Practitioners and Specialists): Physicians with appropriate licenses from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).
- Nurses: Registered nurses who are certified and licensed to administer biologic products under the supervision of a licensed physician.
- Pharmacists: Licensed pharmacists who can dispense biologic products in accordance with DHA regulations.
- Medical Assistants: Certified medical assistants who work under the supervision of licensed healthcare professionals.
Source Info
https://uaelegislation.gov.ae/en/legislations/1438/download
https://uaelegislation.gov.ae/en/legislations/2195/download
https://dhcc.ae/regulations/guidelines-and-standards