Let's Combinate - Drugs + Devices with Subhi Saadeh

If you’ve ever wondered what a combination product is—or how to explain it—this video breaks it down clearly and simply. This is a non-technical, high-level explanation of what a combination product is. It’s meant for anyone who works in or around pharma, medtech, or biotech and wants a clear, shareable reference—without getting into detailed regulatory definitions or region-specific nuances.I’m Subhi Saadeh, and I’ve spent my career in drug-device combination products. In this short reference video, I walk through:- What defines a combination product- Two key factors: primary mode of action and how components are combined- The difference between drug-led and device-led products- Examples of single-entity, co-packaged, and cross-labeled products

00:00 Introduction to Drug Device Combination Products

00:31 Defining Combination Products

00:54 Philosophical Factors of Combination Products

01:10 Drug-Led Combination Products

01:51 Device-Led Combination Products

02:32 Combination Configurations

03:50 Summary and Conclusion

Additional Resources: - 21 CFR Part 4 FDA regulation on Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP) requirements for combination products https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-A/part-4- FDA Guidance: Current Good Manufacturing Practice Requirements for Combination Productshttps://www.fda.gov/media/90652/download- FDA Combination Products Overview Page https://www.fda.gov/combination-products- 21 CFR Part 3 Regulations on combination product classification and primary mode of action (PMOA) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-A/part-3- EU MDR Article 117 Requirements for drug-device combinations under the European Medical Device Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2017/745) https://health.ec.europa.eu/system/files/2021-10/md_mdr_2017-745_en_0.pdf

Subhi Saadeh is a Quality Professional and host of Let's Combinate. With a background in Quality, Manufacturing Operations and R&D he's worked in Large Medical Device/Pharma organizations to support the development and launch of Hardware Devices, Disposable Devices, and Combination Products for Vaccines, Generics, and Biologics. Subhi serves currently as the International Committee Chair for the Combination Products Coalition(CPC) and as a member of ASTM Committee E55 and also served as a committee member on AAMI's Combination Products Committee.For questions, inquiries or suggestions please reach out at letscombinate.com or on the show's LinkedIn Page.

You’ve heard it before: If it’s not documented, it didn’t happen. But in life sciences, documentation isn’t just a formality—it’s the foundation of trust, compliance, and product quality. In this episode, Subhi Saadeh breaks down what documentation actually means by exploring the principles of ALCOA and ALCOA+.Learn where these principles come from, how they’re applied, and why they still matter—even in today's digital systems. From FDA guidances to $500M data scandals, this episode covers what goes wrong when data integrity isn’t taken seriously.⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Why Documentation Still Matters01:24 – Defining Data Integrity in Regulated Industries03:06 – ALCOA Explained: Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate07:18 – ALCOA Plus: Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available08:54 – Real-World Examples: From Whiteout to Warning Letters11:00 – Why Old SOPs Can Ruin New Inspections12:21 – Final Thoughts: Documentation Is About Trust, Not Just Compliance🔍 What You’ll Learn:How ALCOA originated in the 1990s FDA frameworkWhy banning whiteout in labs is about more than inkThe difference between original vs. accurate vs. complete dataHow legacy documentation can break inspectionsThe role of tribal knowledge in document managementThe limits of electronic systems without strong governanceWhy AI and searchability are the next frontier for data integrityHow to think about documentation as a system of trust📚 Mentioned Resources:MHRA GxP Data Integrity Guidance (2018)FDA Guidance for Industry: Data Integrity and Compliance with CGMPBottle of Lies by Katherine EbanSubhi Saadeh is a Quality Professional and host of Let's Combinate. With a background in Quality, Manufacturing Operations and R&D he's worked in Large Medical Device/Pharma organizations to support the development and launch of Hardware Devices, Disposable Devices, and Combination Products for Vaccines, Generics, and Biologics. Subhi serves currently as the International Committee Chair for the Combination Products Coalition(CPC) and as a member of ASTM Committee E55 and also served as a committee member on AAMI's Combination Products Committee.For questions, inquiries or suggestions please reach out at letscombinate.com or on the show's LinkedIn Page.

Episode is based on a talk Subhi Saadeh gave at CPHI. In this episode, Subhi Saadeh breaks down the three levels where true harmonization must happen for drug-device products to succeed:-Global regulatory alignment-Effective sponsor-CXO collaboration-Cross-functional teamwork between drug and device stakeholders inside companiesSubhi covers why regulatory misalignments across countries create uncertainty, how disconnected sponsor-CXO relationships lead to delays and inefficiencies, and how internal friction between pharma and device functions can stall programs even when the science is sound.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: The Reality of Drug-Device Combination Products00:39 – Identifying the Core Issues in Combination Product Development01:38 – What Are Drug-Device Combination Products?02:05 – Common Types of Combination Products05:00 – Market Growth & Regulatory Landscape07:26 – Challenges and Silos That Slow Progress10:01 – Practical Strategies for Harmonization and Collaboration14:56 – Final Thoughts: Why Harmony Beats SamenessSubhi Saadeh is a Quality Professional and host of Let's Combinate. With a background in Quality, Manufacturing Operations and R&D he's worked in Large Medical Device/Pharma organizations to support the development and launch of Hardware Devices, Disposable Devices, and Combination Products for Vaccines, Generics, and Biologics. Subhi serves currently as the International Committee Chair for the Combination Products Coalition(CPC) and as a member of ASTM Committee E55 and also served as a committee member on AAMI's Combination Products Committee.For questions, inquiries or suggestions please reach out at letscombinate.com or on the show's LinkedIn Page.

Ever wondered who’s really behind the regulations you follow in pharma and medical devices? In this episode of Let’s ComBinate, Subhi Saadeh breaks down the five categories of organizations that influence how we develop, test, and release products:Regulatory Authorities (like FDA, EMA, PMDA)Harmonization Bodies (like ICH, IMDRF, and PIC/S)Standards Organizations (ISO, ASTM, etc.)Pharmacopoeias (USP, JP, Ph. Eur.)Industry Groups (like PDA, MDIC, PhRMA, and more)Subhi dives into how each type contributes to the rules, expectations, and gray areas that define your work — and how to figure out which ones really matter when you're reviewing SOPs, guidance docs, and regulatory submissions.00:00 – Intro01:23 – Regulatory Bodies04:03 – Harmonization Organizations10:01 – Standards Organizations12:07 – Pharmacopoeias13:59 – Industry Groups16:11 – Wrap-up and TakeawaysSubhi Saadeh is a Quality Professional and host of Let's Combinate. With a background in Quality, Manufacturing Operations and R&D he's worked in Large Medical Device/Pharma organizations to support the development and launch of Hardware Devices, Disposable Devices, and Combination Products for Vaccines, Generics, and Biologics. Subhi serves currently as the International Committee Chair for the Combination Products Coalition(CPC) and as a member of ASTM Committee E55 and also served as a committee member on AAMI's Combination Products Committee.For questions, inquiries or suggestions please reach out at letscombinate.com or on the show's LinkedIn Page.

In this episode of Let’s Combinate, Subhi Saadeh—an ISO 13485 certified lead auditor, CQA, and CQE—dives into the evolving role of auditing in the medical device and pharmaceutical industries. He reflects on his journey to becoming a Certified Quality Auditor and asks a timely question: in the age of AI, will audits—and auditors—still matter?

Subhi outlines what separates good auditors from great ones, shares lessons from his own audit experiences, and breaks down how AI might streamline parts of the audit process. But he makes a clear case: while AI can assist, it can’t replace the critical thinking, real-time risk judgment, and systems awareness that human auditors bring. The episode wraps with practical advice on how to embrace AI as a tool—without losing the edge that only people have.

00:00 Introduction to Auditing and Certification

00:43 My Auditing Journey and Experience

02:40 The Importance of Technique in Auditing

03:26 Real-World Auditing Insights

04:59 The Value of Certification

07:16 Key Qualities of a Great Auditor

10:48 The Role of AI in Auditing

12:18 Why AI Won't Replace Human Auditors

15:26 Conclusion and Future Outlook

Subhi Saadeh is a Quality Professional and host of Let's Combinate. With a background in Quality, Manufacturing Operations and R&D he's worked in Large Medical Device/Pharma organizations to support the development and launch of Hardware Devices, Disposable Devices, and Combination Products for Vaccines, Generics, and Biologics. Subhi serves currently as the International Committee Chair for the Combination Products Coalition(CPC) and as a member of ASTM Committee E55 and also served as a committee member on AAMI's Combination Products Committee.For questions, inquiries or suggestions please reach out at letscombinate.com or on the show's LinkedIn Page.

What’s the difference between Quality by Design (QbD) and Design Controls—and why should you care if you're developing drug-device combination products?

In this episode of Let’s Combinate, Subhi Saadeh breaks down the key distinctions between QbD, used in pharmaceutical development, and design controls, the regulatory framework guiding medical device design.

Learn how these two approaches tackle product realization, why they're not interchangeable, and how both are essential when building safe, effective, and compliant combination products.

Whether you work in drug development, medical devices, or the space in between, this episode will help you:

-Understand the regulatory foundations of QbD (ICH Q8) and design controls (FDA 21 CFR 820.30)

-Learn the core tools and deliverables (like CQAs, QTPP, design verification & validation, and risk assessments)

-See how each system addresses user needs, therapeutic effects, and process control

-Apply both systems effectively in combination product developmentTimestamps:

00:00 – Intro: Why Compare QbD and Design Controls?

01:31 – Philosophical Differences: Process vs. Product Control

03:10 – Practical Examples: Drugs vs. Devices

05:13 – Origins and Frameworks: ICH Q8 and Design Controls Regulation

06:46 – Deep Dive: What Are Design Controls? (Inputs, Outputs, DHF, V&V, Transfer)

11:51 – What Is Quality by Design (QbD)? (QTPP, CQAs, Design Space, DOE)

15:39 – Final Takeaways: How to Use Both in Combination Products

Subhi Saadeh is a Quality Professional and host of Let's Combinate. With a background in Quality, Manufacturing Operations and R&D he's worked in Large Medical Device/Pharma organizations to support the development and launch of Hardware Devices, Disposable Devices, and Combination Products for Vaccines, Generics, and Biologics. Subhi serves currently as the International Committee Chair for the Combination Products Coalition(CPC) and as a member of ASTM Committee E55 and also served as a committee member on AAMI's Combination Products Committee.For questions, inquiries or suggestions please reach out at letscombinate.com or on the show's LinkedIn Page.

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ICH Q8, Q9, Q10, and Q12ISO 14971 Risk ManagementDifferences between usability engineering and clinical trialsThe role of control strategies and process monitoring in pharmaRelevant for:Regulatory affairs professionalsQuality engineers in pharma and medtechDrug/device development teamsAnyone preparing for combination product submissions or audits

In this episode of Let's Accommodate Drugs and Devices, host Subhi Saadeh shares four pieces of timeless career advice inspired by Morgan Housel's book, 'Same as Ever'. This episode is particularly aimed at bioengineering students and early-career professionals.

The tips include: publishing early to build visibility, understanding how industry regulations and processes work, developing interdisciplinary skills, and finding mentors for guidance. Subhi emphasizes the importance of learning for its own sake and seeking out diverse experiences to enhance one's career prospects in the highly regulated field of bioengineering.

00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Episode

00:36 Tip 1: Start Publishing Early

04:26 Tip 2: Learn How Industry Really Works

06:14 Tip 3: Build Skills Across Disciplines

09:00 Tip 4: Find Mentors and Network

12:08 Conclusion and Recap

Subhi Saadeh is a Quality Professional and host of Let's Combinate. With a background in Quality, Manufacturing Operations and R&D he's worked in Large Medical Device/Pharma organizations to support the development and launch of Hardware Devices, Disposable Devices, and Combination Products for Vaccines, Generics, and Biologics. Subhi serves currently as the International Committee Chair for the Combination Products Coalition(CPC) and as a member of ASTM Committee E55 and also served as a committee member on AAMI's Combination Products Committee.

For questions, inquiries or suggestions please reach out at letscombinate.com or on the show's LinkedIn Page.

In this episode of Let's Combinate, host Subhi Saadeh is joined by Aaron Snyder, the creator of Quality Systems Explained and a seasoned consultant in regulated quality systems. The discussion revolves around the critical role of documentation in quality systems, which serves as the backbone of compliance. Key topics include the hierarchy of regulations, document management best practices, the intricacies of quality manuals, and the critical distinctions between SOPs and work instructions. Additionally, they explore the interconnectedness of document control and training, emphasizing the importance of defined roles and responsibilities within organizations. Listeners are provided with insights into establishing and maintaining effective documentation systems while ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:37 The Importance of Documentation in Quality Systems

01:30 Hierarchy and Structure of Documentation

02:44 Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) vs. Work Instructions

11:22 Document Control and Change Management

15:52 Roles and Responsibilities in Quality Systems

18:20 RACI Matrix and Its Importance

20:47 Common Issues in Documentation and Training

25:25 Conclusion and Where to Find More Information

Aaron Snyder is a quality management systems expert and the founder of Quality Systems Explained. He previously served as VP of QA at Allotex and has held roles at Fresenius Kabi, Molnlycke, Waters Corporation, Covidien, Cardinal Health, and General Electric. With extensive experience across pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and combination products, Aaron is also a member of the AAMI Faculty, teaching several courses on various QMS topics. An avid content creator, he dissects, presents, and teaches QMS and cGMP topics on his YouTube channel, Quality Systems Explained.

Subhi Saadeh is a Quality Professional and host of Let's Combinate. With a background in Quality, Manufacturing Operations and R&D he's worked in Large Medical Device/Pharma organizations to support the development and launch of Hardware Devices, Disposable Devices, and Combination Products for Vaccines, Generics, and Biologics. Subhi serves currently as the International Committee Chair for the Combination Products Coalition(CPC) and as a member of ASTM Committee E55 and also served as a committee member on AAMI's Combination Products Committee.For questions, inquiries or suggestions please reach out at letscombinate.com or on the show's LinkedIn Page.

In this episode of Let's Combinate, host Subhi Saadeh welcomes back Skip Creveling, a global expert in program management and Six Sigma methodologies.

Skip shares his extensive experience helping Fortune 500 companies optimize design processes, reduce risks, and drive innovation—especially in highly regulated industries like medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and aerospace.

The discussion explores Skip’s career transition from Eastman Kodak to the medical device sector, the importance of structured program management, phase gate processes, and the balance between going fast and ensuring thorough planning.

Skip also delves into the differences between simple and complex projects and the necessity of having tailored project management templates for various project scales.

The episode concludes with insights into how to manage risks effectively through tools like project and portfolio FMEAs, and the importance of data-driven decision-making in project execution.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:19 – Skip's Background and Experience
01:10 – Transition to Medical Devices and Pharma
03:35 – Program and Project Management Insights
06:03 – Phases and Gates in Product Development
08:59 – Challenges and Strategies in Project Management
10:51 – Examples of Project Management in Action
13:28 – Importance of Planning and Risk Management
18:10 – Templates and Tools for Effective Project Management
29:49 – Final Thoughts and Contact Information

About the Host:
Subhi Saadeh is a Quality Professional and host of Let's Combinate. With a background in Quality, Manufacturing Operations, and R&D, he has worked in large Medical Device and Pharma organizations to support the development and launch of hardware devices, disposable devices, and combination products for vaccines, generics, and biologics.

Subhi currently serves as the International Committee Chair for the Combination Products Coalition (CPC), is a member of ASTM Committee E55, and has served on AAMI's Combination Products Committee.

For questions, inquiries, or suggestions, please visit letscombinate.com or connect on the show's LinkedIn page.

Understanding GXPs: Essential Good Practices for Bioengineering ProfessionalsIn this episode of Let's Combinate, host Subhi Saadeh, a seasoned bioengineer with ten years of experience in the pharma and medical device industries, provides an in-depth exploration of good practice guidelines (GXPs). Subhi covers various GXPs including GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice), GLP (Good Laboratory Practice), GCP (Good Clinical Practice), and GDP (Good Distribution Practice), explaining their roles, regulations, and importance in ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of medical devices and pharmaceuticals. He discusses how these frameworks integrate to form a comprehensive approach that governs the lifecycle of medical products from preclinical research to post-market surveillance. Additionally, Subhi delves into GAMP (Good Automated Manufacturing Practice) and GVP (Good Pharmacovigilance Practice), emphasizing their significance in maintaining data integrity and patient safety. This extended episode aims to provide early professionals with a robust understanding of these critical regulatory standards and their real-world applications in industry.00:00 Introduction to GXP02:22 Understanding GMP: Good Manufacturing Practice09:21 Exploring GLP: Good Laboratory Practices17:57 Diving into GCP: Good Clinical Practices24:00 Ensuring Quality with GDP: Good Distribution Practices29:32 Overview of GVP and GAMP33:48 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSubhi Saadeh is a Quality Professional and host of Let's Combinate. With a background in Quality, Manufacturing Operations and R&D he's worked in Large Medical Device/Pharma organizations to support the development and launch of Hardware Devices, Disposable Devices, and Combination Products for Vaccines, Generics, and Biologics. Subhi serves currently as the International Committee Chair for the Combination Products Coalition(CPC) and as a member of ASTM Committee E55 and also served as a committee member on AAMI's Combination Products Committee.For questions, inquiries or suggestions please reach out at letscombinate.com or on the show's LinkedIn Page.