Knowledge Center

Explore our library of blogs, short videos, virtual event recordings and training topics

FDA GUDID Class I Reminder

Aug 5, 2021 | Medical Devices, Unique Device Identification

(This blog was updated July 22, 2022)

What is the Global Unique Device Identification Database, also known as GUDID? It is a database that contains key device information submitted to the FDA, including Unique Device Identifier (UDI) product data. Within the FDA GUDID, there are different classes of medical devices to be considered. To market medical devices in the US, manufacturers are required to submit specific UDI product data as part of the compliance process.

What are the requirements for Class I medical devices concerning unique device identification (UDI) data submission to US FDA GUDID?

Class I devices, and devices that have not been classified into class I, class II or class III that are required to be labeled with a UDI, must bear UDI as a permanent marking on the device itself if the device is one that is intended to be used more than once and intended to be reprocessed before each use. §801.45.

On July 22, 2022 The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a Final Guidance document for labelers of Class I medical devices. In an effort to help the industry remain focused on high-quality Unique Device Identification (UDI) submissions and COVID-19 response efforts, the agency announced it does not intend to enforce standard date formatting, UDI labeling and GUDID data submission requirements for Class I and unclassified devices before December 8, 2022. (previously September 24, 2022). 

Exemptions include ‘Good Manufacturing Practice’ (GMP), if the product is carrying a UPC label currently, is 510(k)-exempt and sold exclusively to consumers over-the-counter. Other scenarios may require compliance.

The FDA goal is to strengthen public health with standards that ensure safety, security, and reliability. The Global Unique Device Identification Database (GUDID, pronounced “Good ID”) allows for a single database of all devices with UDIs submitted to the FDA. The UDI system allows medical devices to be better labeled as what they are and what they are used for across the healthcare industry.

GUDID contains only the device identifier (DI) of the UDI, and typically represents the device model or version. This (DI) can be submitted by manual web interface or bulk xml file upload to GUDID, but the timeline to prepare and correctly submit is often underestimated. Before you submit anything, you’ll want to ensure you correctly follow the guidelines based on your medical device class.

In this session of Reed Tech Insights, review some critical reminders for Class I medical devices. (Note, this video was recorded prior to FDA Final Guidance and enforcement date of December 8, 2022.)

Want to learn more about how Reed Tech can help you with UDI data compliance?

As you are navigating the guidance and completing UDI requirements, Reed Tech is available to help with SingleSource™ for Medical Devices. Expert Reed Tech staff work with your regulatory team to smoothly navigate each stage of UDI data submission – especially if you have limited staff resources to devote to UDI data compliance.

Register to see a recording of our webinar discussing FDA GUDID Class 1 Deadlines and the latest draft guidance issued in October 2021.

Contact us to learn more: [email protected]