Key facts about Lutathera
What is Lutathera?
Lutathera is the brand name for lutetium Lu 177 dotatate and is available as an IV injection.
What dosages is Lutathera available in?
Lutathera is available as a 370 MBq/mL (10 mCi/mL) of lutetium Lu 177 dotatate in single-dose vial.
What is Lutathera used for?
Lutathera is a radiopharmaceutical and is used to treat neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) in the digestive tract that are positive for the somatostatin hormone receptor.
How does Lutathera work?
Lutathera is a radiopharmaceutical. It’s a special type of somatostatin, a hormone naturally found in the body. In this version, somatostatin is combined with a radioactive chemical. Lutathera works by attaching to the somatostatin receptor on the surface of tumor cells. Then, it enters the cell. Once inside, the radioactive part of the medication damages the cell, stopping the tumor from growing and spreading.
How do I take Lutathera?
The typical dose of Lutathera is 7.4 GBq given as an injection through the vein about every 8 weeks for a total of 4 doses. Between 4 to 24 hours after each Lutathera dose, you’ll need to use long-acting octreotide (Sandostatin LAR).
Is it safe for me to take Lutathera?
Lutathera is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you.
Lutathera Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Lutathera:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Lowered appetite
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Swelling in the arms and legs
Lutathera Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Lutathera. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Serious allergic reaction: breathing problems, hives, rash, itchiness; swelling of the face, mouth, or lips
- Hormone gland problems: feeling hot or flushed, severe diarrhea, feeling weak or dizzy, breathing problems
- Low blood cell counts: fever, chills, feeling very tired, dizziness, unusual bleeding or bruising
- Bone marrow problems and blood cancers: feeling very weak or tired, bruising or bleeding easily, blood in the urine or stool, fevers, unexplained weight loss
- Kidney problems: making little or no urine, dark urine
Liver problems: pain in the right side of the stomach, yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark or brown urine
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Lutathera
The following medications may interact with Lutathera:
- Somatostatin Analogs: Discontinue long-acting analogs at least 4 weeks and short-acting octreotide at least 24 hours prior to each Lutathera dose
Who makes Lutathera?
Novartis Pharmaceuticals
Is Lutathera safe in pregnancy?
Based on its mechanism of action, Lutathera can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. You should have a pregnancy test before starting this medication. Females that can become pregnant should use effective contraception during treatment with Lutathera and for 7 months after the last dose. Males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Lutathera and for 4 months after the last dose
