16.—(1) In paragraph 14(b)(ii) “new excipient variation application” means an application (other than a complex variation application) by the holder of the registration to vary it so that the formulation of the medicinal product to which it relates can be changed by the addition of a new excipient.
(2) For the purpose of sub-paragraph (1) “new excipient” means, subject to paragraphs (3) and (4), an ingredient of a medicinal product that is not an active ingredient and that has not been included in a medicinal product—
(a)intended to be administered by the same route as the product to which the application relates; and
(b)for which a marketing authorisation (other than a product licence of right) or traditional herbal registration has been granted.
(3) In the application of sub-paragraph (1) to a medicinal product intended to be administered orally, the reference to a new excipient does not include any ingredient specified in an enactment as an approved ingredient or additive in food or in a food product.
(4) In the application of sub-paragraph (1) to a medicinal product intended for external use only, the reference to a new excipient does not include any ingredient specified in an enactment as an approved ingredient or additive in a cosmetic product.
(5) In this paragraph “enactment” includes an enactment comprised in subordinate legislation or in any Directive, Regulation or Decision of the European Union.