Xofigo: An exciting new therapy for prostate cancer

Objectives Since FDA approval on May 15, 2013, Xofigo(radium dichloride223RaCl2) has been approved to treat men with symptomatic late-stage mCRPC that has spread to bones but not to other organs. Xofigo seen steady growth in demand. According to company representation, there have been over 500 doses ordered per week in the US alone, fueling the research for additional alpha emitting therapeutic agents. Alpha particles have a particular advantage over other targeted therapies, due to their high potency and specificity. The purpose of this study is to introduce technologists to the clinical use of Xofigo, and inform them of the potential clinical trial involvement for future alpha emitters.

Methods A systematic review of package inserts, company websites, literature, and interviews with company reps, radiopharmacists, and technologists were conducted. Published Case studies were also reviewed to exemplify effectiveness.

Results Demand for this new alpha emitter has proven strong. The biggest hurdle for technologists is education: understanding the treatment schedule, hematologic eligibility requirements, and the differences alpha emitters provide from the widely used beta emitters.

Conclusions Understanding Xofigo, the process for treatment, and the clinical effectiveness are the largest hurdle to implementation of this exciting new therapeutic agent.

Research Support Crystal Botkin, William Hubble, Debra Hewing, Austin Turner, Medhat M. Osman, Earl Robertson, R. Muzaffar