radium223

Radium-223, also known as radium 223 or Ra-223, is a radioactive isotope of radium. It is an alpha-emitting radionuclide with a half-life of approximately 11.4 days. Radium-223 decays through a series of alpha and beta emissions, ultimately producing stable lead isotopes. Its decay chain is notable for including several other radioactive isotopes.

In the medical field, radium-223 dichloride, marketed under the brand name Xofigo, is a radiopharmaceutical used in the treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer that has spread to the bones. It is administered via intravenous injection. Once in the body, radium-223 behaves similarly to calcium and preferentially accumulates in areas of bone formation, such as bone metastases. The alpha particles emitted by radium-223 have a very short range, typically less than 100 micrometers, meaning they deposit their energy primarily within the tumor cells in the bone. This targeted delivery mechanism is intended to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

The use of radium-223 is associated with potential side effects, including gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, and myelosuppression. Its administration requires careful monitoring by healthcare professionals. Research into other potential applications of radium-223 continues, though its primary current use remains in oncology.