Radiopharmaceuticals

Radiopharmaceutical Treatment Options for People with Cancer

Radiopharmaceutical therapy is an innovative and promising approach in cancer treatment. The Radiation Oncology team at St. Elizabeth Healthcare is pleased to offer this advanced treatment at the St. Elizabeth Healthcare Cancer Center – Edgewood.

Radiopharmaceutical Therapy Targets Cancer Cells

Radiopharmaceuticals are used to treat tumors by delivering targeted radiation directly to cancer cells. These radioactive compounds are designed to be absorbed by the tumor or surrounding tissue. They typically consist of a radioactive isotope attached to a molecule that specifically targets cancer cells, allowing the radiation to be directed precisely at the tumor while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. The radiation emitted by the radiopharmaceuticals works to stop tumor growth, reducing the symptoms caused by the tumor and improving the patient’s overall well-being.

The radiation oncologist and radiation nurse work closely with the nuclear medicine team and medical oncologist to coordinate radiopharmaceutical administrations, treatment schedules, and management of side effects

How Providers Use Radiopharmaceuticals for Imaging and Diagnosis

Radiopharmaceuticals can also be used in nuclear medicine to help doctors locate and assess tumors. When injected into the body, these compounds can be tracked using imaging technologies like PET (Positron Emission Tomography) or SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography), helping to pinpoint the exact location and size of tumors.

• Xoifigo® for prostate cancer with bone metastatic disease.
• Pluvicto® for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer.
• Lutathera® for neuroendocrine tumors.

What You Can Expect

Your care team will talk with you about the potential benefits and risks of radiopharmaceutical therapy. We want you to have all the information you need to decide if this treatment option is right for you.

Our radiation oncologists and nurses work closely with the nuclear medicine team to ensure the amount of radioactive material you receive during treatment is effective and safe. They also collaborate with other members of your cancer care team to ensure well-coordinated care and achieve the best possible outcomes.

Before you receive your first radiopharmaceutical treatment, you may need to have blood work and imaging tests completed. Your doctor may also prescribe medication to prepare your body for radiopharmaceutical therapy.

Most patients receiving this therapy have one treatment every six to eight weeks. Your treatments will take place at the Radiation Oncology Department at St. Elizabeth Healthcare – Edgewood. Depending on the specific drug you are receiving, you can expect to spend between one and six hours with us. Throughout your treatment journey, you will be closely monitored by the radiation oncologist, radiation nurse practitioner, and radiation nurse.

Common side effects may include:

You will be closely monitored throughout your treatment, with regular blood work to assess any changes in your kidneys, liver, and blood counts. Your doctor will review all results and adjust your treatment as needed based on these findings.

Our caring team of doctors and nurses will help you manage these concerns. You may continue to see your medical oncologist in between appointments for ongoing cancer care.