Title:An Update on Extemporaneous Preparation of Radiopharmaceuticals Using Freeze-Dried Cold Kits
Volume: 21
Issue: 11
Author(s): Archana Mukherjee*
Affiliation:
- Radiopharmaceuticals Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai 400094,India
Keywords:
Radiopharmaceuticals, diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals, therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals, cold kits, 68Ga radiopharmaceuticals,
177Lu radiopharmaceuticals.
Abstract: The field of nuclear medicine is rapidly evolving due to the high demand of radiopharmaceuticals
for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. The availability of a vast array of radioisotopes,
improvement in radiolabeling strategies, and advancements in detection systems have also contributed
to the progress in this field. Radiopharmaceuticals are mainly classified based on their application as
diagnostic or therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals. These are available either as ready to use preparations
or prepared at hospital radiopharmacy either using automated synthesis modules or by using freezedried
cold kit formulations. Availability of freeze-dried cold kits for preparation of varied radiopharmaceuticals
for targeting various organs and tumors played an essential role in the extensive use of
99mTc radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostic imaging by single-photon emission computed tomography
(SPECT) imaging. Cold kits are especially suitable for the preparation of radiopharmaceuticals labeled
with isotopes like 177Lu with relatively long half-life or radionuclides produced by radioisotope
generators. A simplified procedure for the preparation of positron emission tomography (PET) radiopharmaceuticals
is also desired to achieve images with higher resolution and sensitivity offered by
PET. Robust kit formulations will simplify the preparation of PET radiopharmaceuticals and will contribute
to extensive applications of positron emitters such as 68Ga. Several therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals
are also being made using cold kits of the ligands. This review provides an update on diagnostic
and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals prepared using cold kits.
