Radioactive drug

Radioactive drug is a type of radiopharmaceutical used in the field of nuclear medicine. These drugs contain radioactive isotopes and are used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Overview

A radioactive drug, also known as a radiopharmaceutical, is a medication that contains radioactive substances. These drugs are used in the field of nuclear medicine to diagnose and treat a variety of diseases. The radioactive isotopes in these drugs emit gamma rays that can be detected by special types of cameras to create images of the inside of the body. This allows doctors to see how the body is functioning and to detect any abnormalities.

Uses

Radioactive drugs are used in a variety of medical procedures. They are most commonly used in diagnostic imaging procedures, such as Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans and Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) scans. These scans allow doctors to see how the body is functioning and to detect any abnormalities.

In addition to diagnostic imaging, radioactive drugs are also used in radiation therapy to treat certain types of cancer. The radioactive isotopes in these drugs target and kill cancer cells, while minimizing damage to healthy cells.

Safety and Side Effects

Like all medications, radioactive drugs can have side effects. These can include allergic reactions, changes in blood counts, and changes in kidney function. However, the risk of these side effects is generally low, and the benefits of using radioactive drugs often outweigh the risks.

Despite the use of radioactive substances, radioactive drugs are generally safe to use. The amount of radiation exposure from these drugs is typically low and is carefully controlled to minimize risk. In addition, the radioactive isotopes in these drugs decay quickly, so they do not stay in the body for long.

See Also

• Radiopharmaceutical
• Nuclear medicine
• Diagnostic imaging
• Radiation therapy