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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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