Communications * Standard Dictionary is a comprehensive compilation of terms and definitions used in communications and related fields. Communications is defined as the branch of science and technology concerned with the process of representing, transferring, and interpreting the meaning as signed to data by and among persons, places, or machines. Communication is defined as the transfer of information between a source (trans mitter, light source) and a sink (receiver, photodetector) over one or more chan nels in accordance with a protocol, and in a manner suitable for interpretation or comprehension by the receiver; or as a method or means of conveying informa tion of any kind from one person or place to another. In short, communications is a branch of science and technology, whereas com munication pertains to the actual transfer of information. Thus, the word com munication should be used as a modifier, as in communication center, communi cation deception, and communication line, just as in the field of electronics one speaks of electronic devices and electronic circuits.

Combination products are therapeutic and diagnostic products that combine drugs, devices, and/or biological products. According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), “a combination product is one composed of any combination of a drug and a device; a biological product and a device; a drug and a biological product; or a drug, device and a biological product.” Examples include prefilled syringes, pen injectors, autoinjectors, inhalers, transdermal delivery systems, drug-eluting stents, and kits containing drug administration devices co-packaged with drugs and/or biological products. This handbook provides the most up-to-date information on the development of combination products, from the technology involved to successful delivery to market. The authors present important and up-to-the-minute pre- and post-market reviews of international combination product regulations, guidance, considerations, and best practices. This handbook: Brings clarity of understanding for global combination products guidance and regulations Reviews the current state-of-the-art considerations and best practices spanning the combination product lifecycle, pre-market through post-market Reviews medical product classification and assignment issues faced by global regulatory authorities and industry The editor is a recognized international Combination Products and Medical Device expert with over 35 years of industry experience and has an outstanding team of contributors. Endorsed by AAMI – Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation.