Flotufolastat F-18

Flotufolastat F-18

Flotufolastat F-18 is a radiopharmaceutical used in PET imaging. It is a fluorine-18 labeled derivative of fluciclovine, a synthetic amino acid. Flotufolastat F-18 is used to identify biochemical changes in the body at the cellular level, specifically in the detection of prostate cancer.

History

Flotufolastat F-18 was developed by the Blue Earth Diagnostics, a subsidiary of Bracco Imaging. It was approved by the FDA in May 2016 under the brand name Axumin.

Mechanism of Action

Flotufolastat F-18 works by binding to the amino acid transporters that are upregulated in prostate cancer cells. The fluorine-18 isotope emits positrons, which can be detected by a PET scanner to create images of the body.

Clinical Use

Flotufolastat F-18 is used in PET imaging to detect recurrent prostate cancer. It is particularly useful in cases where other imaging modalities, such as CT or MRI, are inconclusive.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Flotufolastat F-18 include nausea, dizziness, and headache. As with all radiopharmaceuticals, there is a small risk of radiation exposure.

See Also

• Radiopharmaceutical
• Positron Emission Tomography
• Prostate Cancer