Lutetium Lu 177 Dotatate
FDA approvedLutetium Lu 177 dotatate (Lutathera) is a radioactive peptide therapy approved by the FDA in 2018 for somatostatin receptor-positive gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs). It delivers radiation directly to tumor cells.
At a glance
- Where it acts
- Digestive & weight
- Regulatory status
- FDA approvedApproved by the U.S. FDA for at least one medical use.
Mechanism of Action
The drug pairs a somatostatin analog peptide (octreotate) with the radioactive isotope lutetium-177. The peptide binds somatostatin receptors, which are overexpressed on neuroendocrine tumor cells; the bound complex is internalized and its beta radiation damages tumor DNA.
Typical Dosage (Research)
Prescription-only medicine. Dosing is set by a physician according to the FDA-approved label and the condition being treated.
Side Effects & Risks
Low blood counts, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, raised liver enzymes and low potassium.
Radiation exposure, bone marrow suppression, a small risk of secondary blood cancers (myelodysplastic syndrome, leukemia), kidney toxicity, hormonal crises from tumor release, and harm to a fetus. Requires radiation safety precautions.
Who Uses Lutetium Lu 177 Dotatate
Adults and children 12 and older with somatostatin receptor-positive GEP-NETs, given by specialist nuclear medicine teams.