What does "substantial equivalence" refer to in FDA terminology?

"Substantial equivalence" is a key concept in FDA terminology, particularly in the context of medical devices. It refers to a determination that a new device is as safe and effective as a legally marketed device that is already on the market. This means that the new device can be compared to an existing one, known as a predicate device, in terms of intended use, technological characteristics, and performance.

When a new device is deemed to be substantially equivalent, it allows the device to go through a more streamlined regulatory pathway, which is typically less burdensome than the premarket approval process required for devices that are considered not substantially equivalent. This process significantly aids innovation while ensuring that products available to consumers meet a standard of safety and efficacy comparable to their predecessors.

The other options presented do not accurately capture the essence of "substantial equivalence." Requirement for increased clinical testing relates to different types of regulatory pathways and not specifically to the idea of substantial equivalence. A measure of device market share is concerned with market dynamics rather than regulatory standards. Lastly, a process for patenting new medical devices pertains to intellectual property law, which is separate from the regulatory considerations of the FDA.