Radiopharmaceuticals are drugs that contain radioactivity. These are most often used in prostateThe prostate is a walnut-sized gland located between the bla... Full Definition cancerCancer is a group of diseases where cells grow abnormally an... Full Definition to help with pain from bone metastases that does not respond to hormone therapy. The most common type is Radium-223 (Xofigo®). 152 (Quadramet®) and 89 (Metastron®) may also be used.
Who is this treatment best for?
Men with bone metastases whose cancer has not responded to hormone therapy.
What to Expect
Radiopharmaceuticals are given intravenously. They emit radioactive particles that enter the bloodstream and attack cancer cells in the bone.
Who orders or performs the treatment?
What are common side effects?
Lowered white blood cell or platelet count or anemia that may require transfusions, temporary increase in bone pain.