Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Radiopharmaceuticals are radioactive compounds used in medical imaging and treatment. They help diagnose or treat diseases by targeting specific organs, tissues, or cellular receptors.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Radiopharmaceuticals emit radiation that can be detected by imaging devices such as PET and SPECT scanners.
They often contain a radionuclide combined with a biologically active molecule to target specific areas of the body.
Common radionuclides used include Technetium-99m, Iodine-131, and Fluorine-18.
Radiopharmaceuticals can be administered via injection, inhalation, or oral ingestion depending on the diagnostic or therapeutic need.
Safety protocols are crucial when handling radiopharmaceuticals to protect both patients and healthcare workers from excessive radiation exposure.
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Related terms
Positron Emission Tomography (PET): A type of nuclear medicine imaging test that uses radiopharmaceuticals to visualize functional processes in the body.
Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT): An imaging technique similar to PET but using gamma rays emitted by radiopharmaceuticals to create detailed images.
Radionuclide: A radioactive isotope used in various scientific and medical applications, including as a component of radiopharmaceuticals.