Title:Radiopharmaceuticals Adverse Events Management
Volume: 18
Issue: 1
Author(s): Ana Agudo Martínez*, Gertrudis Sabatel Hernandez, Manuela Molina Mora, Pablo Antonio de la Riva Perez, Rosa Fernandez Lopez, Teresa Cambil Molina and Cinta Calvo Moron
Affiliation:
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Virgen Macarena University Hospital, Seville, Spain
Keywords:
Adverse reactions, radiopharmaceutical-drug interaction, radiopharmaceutical extravasations, adverse events management, patient safety, diagnostic accuracy.
Abstract:
Background and Purpose: Radiopharmaceuticals are radioactive compounds used
for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes which are most often administered intravenously. Adverse
events that may induce both adverse reactions and drug-to-drug interactions with changes
in expected biodistribution, potentially affecting patient safety and diagnostic accuracy. Adverse
reactions are relatively rare due to the small doses and under-reporting is the norm. The aim of
this study is to increase awareness of the need to report in order to create protocols for the management
of such adverse events among professionals in a Nuclear Medicine Department.
Methods: A reporting system was established a decade ago through an electronic form to enhance
adverse event registration. The radiopharmacist collects data for further communication
with National Health authorities and develops an annual report with recommendations on the
management of these adverse events.
Results: A total of 128 reports were collected, including 65 cases of extravasations, 18 adverse
reactions, and 45 drug interactions. Over the years, reporting has been increasing, adverse reactions
occurred at a higher incidence than reported in the literature, and each anomalous biodistribution
was analysed for possible drug interaction. The annual reports have been used to develop
a local guideline for the management of adverse reactions and recommendations for discontinuation
of treatment to avoid interactions with radiopharmaceuticals.
Conclusion: The recognition of adverse events associated with radiopharmaceuticals is increasing,
underlining the need for vigilant reporting and improved management strategies. An efficient
reporting system promotes awareness of possible interactions between radiopharmaceuticals
and other medicines and their potential adverse reactions to enhance patient safety.
