IAEA Launches New Radiopharmacy Database to Enhance Global Access and Collaboration

Radiopharmaceuticals, characterized by their short shelf life—ranging from a few hours to days—require timely and efficient production and distribution.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has unveiled a new radiopharmacy database designed to improve research, collaboration, and the sustainability of radiopharmaceuticals for clinical use. This comprehensive online resource aims to streamline access to vital information about radiopharmaceutical production and supply, enhancing global efforts to address potential gaps and foster connections among producers.

Radiopharmaceuticals, characterized by their short shelf life—ranging from a few hours to days—require timely and efficient production and distribution. Produced in various settings, including hospitals, centralized radiopharmacies, and industrial facilities, these specialized pharmaceuticals are crucial for diagnosing and treating certain cancers, among other applications.

Benefits and Growth of Radiopharmaceuticals

In the past two decades, radiopharmaceuticals have revolutionized patient care, particularly in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Advances such as radiotheranostics, which combine diagnosis and therapy using radioactive substances, are expected to drive further growth in the field. As demand for personalized cancer treatments increases, so does the need for innovative radiopharmaceuticals.

Celina Horak, Head of the Radiochemistry and Radiation Technology Section at the IAEA, emphasizes the importance of this database: “As the availability of radionuclides and the variety of molecules to target specific diseases increases, the expectations from radiopharmaceutical sciences are rising. The IAEA’s support is crucial for advancing developments and ensuring global access to these products.”

Features of the New Database

The IAEA radiopharmacy database will provide valuable insights into:

Types and availability of radiopharmaceuticals.

Research facilities involved in preclinical and clinical trials.

Facilities that produce and supply radioisotopes.

The database includes three main sections:

Radionuclide Production Facilities: Details on facilities that produce radioisotopes.

Radiopharmacy Facilities: Information on facilities involved in radiopharmaceutical production.

Source Data Table: A table with consolidated source data for easy reference.

An interactive map will visually represent global radiopharmacy profiles and status, supporting information sharing and trend tracking. The IAEA will regularly update the database based on survey results from facilities producing radiopharmaceuticals and radioisotopes.

How to Participate in the Survey

Facilities interested in contributing to the database can follow these steps:

Open the Radiopharmacy Database.

Click on “Submit survey here.”

Navigate to “Radiopharmacy DB NAPC” on the left.

Access the “Data” tab and click the “+” button to open the survey form.

To avoid duplicate submissions, institutions should consolidate their information before final submission. For any inquiries, participants can contact the IAEA via email.

Sandra Popovic-Ovcina, former Unit Head of Software Solutions at the IAEA, highlights the impact of the new database: “The interactive map and updated database will strengthen information sharing and track trends, ultimately improving global access to radiopharmaceuticals.”

For more information, visit the IAEA Radiopharmacy Database or contact the IAEA directly.