Quadramet

Generic name: samarium sm 153 lexidronam [ sa-MAR-ee-um-Sm-153 lex-ID-roe-nam ]

Drug class: Therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals

Brand name: Quadramet

Dosage forms: Injectable solution.

Route of administration: Intravenous (IV) injection.

Dose: Typical dose: 1 mCi/kg (37 MBq/kg) administered as a single IV dose.

Mechanism of action: Samarium-153 lexidronam is a radiopharmaceutical used for the palliative treatment of painful bone metastases. The drug combines samarium-153, a radioactive isotope, with a chelating agent that binds to the bone. Once injected, the radioactive samarium-153 localizes to areas of bone with metastases, where it emits radiation that helps to reduce pain by targeting and irradiating cancerous cells in the bone.

Drug usage cases: Treatment of painful bone metastases in patients with cancer. It is used to manage bone pain associated with cancer when other treatments have not been effective.

Drug contraindications: Known hypersensitivity to samarium-153 lexidronam or any component of the formulation. Pregnancy (due to radiation exposure). Severe renal impairment (due to altered drug clearance).

Side effects: Common: Nausea, vomiting, fatigue, pain at the injection site. Serious: Myelosuppression (e.g., anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia), radiation exposure effects, allergic reactions. Rare: Severe or prolonged bone marrow suppression, significant increases in pain or other side effects.

Warnings: Monitor blood cell counts regularly due to the risk of myelosuppression. Use with caution in patients with preexisting bone marrow issues. Ensure adequate hydration to help reduce the risk of radiation-related effects. Inform your doctor if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Ensure that radiation safety precautions are followed to minimize exposure to others.

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: Contraindicated during pregnancy due to the potential risk of radiation to the fetus. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception. It is unknown if samarium-153 is excreted in breast milk, and breastfeeding is generally not recommended during treatment with Quadramet. Consult your doctor for guidance on managing radiation exposure while breastfeeding.