Home > Encyclopedia of Cancer > Radiopharmaceuticals

Definition

Radiopharmaceuticals are radioactive substances that may be used to treat cancer.

Purpose

The common radiopharmaceuticals that are used in cancer treatment include:

• Chromic phosphate P 32 for the treatment of lung, ovarian, uterine, and prostate cancers
• Sodium iodide I 131 for treating certain types of thyroid cancer
• Strontium chloride Sr 89 for treating cancerous bone tissue
• Samarium Sm 153 lexidronam for treating cancerous bone tissue
• Sodium phosphate P 32 for treating cancerous bone tissue and other types of cancers.

Description

Radiopharmaceuticals used in cancer treatment are small, simple substances, containing a...