New Radiopharmacy Database: Enhancing Development, Collaboration and Research

Over the last 20 years, developments in radiopharmaceuticals have offered immense benefits to patients, mainly for certain cancers, through early diagnosis, screening, staging and providing treatment selection options, including radionuclide therapy. This has led to the rise of radiotheranostics which uses radioactive substances to diagnose and treat diseases by targeting specific areas in the body, and it is expected to grow in the coming years.  

“As the availability of radionuclides and variety of molecules to target specific diseases increases, expectations from radiopharmaceutical sciences to provide more specific drugs for personalized cancer treatment are rising. The IAEA’s support is vital in advancing developments and making radiopharmaceutical products available for patients around the world,” says Celina Horak, Head of the Radiochemistry and Radiation Technology Section, at the IAEA.  

The consolidated database will facilitate access to different types of information, such as the types of radiopharmaceuticals and their availability; research facilities engaged in preclinical and clinical trials; and facilities that supply radioisotopes. Three pages have been created to give access to this information, divided into radionuclide production facilities, radiopharmacy facilities and a table with source data, enabling database users to easily navigate the information provided.  

The new IAEA radiopharmacy database will serve as a useful tool for a diverse community of producers, researchers and users of radiopharmaceuticals, enabling them to spot emerging trends and potential supply gaps in radiopharmaceutical production. It will also support foster collaboration between various producers, developments enabling greater access to radiopharmaceuticals in such facilities. 

“The IAEA will continue to update the new radiopharmacy database with information received from surveys sent to facilities producing radioisotopes and radiopharmaceuticals. The results will be available in an interactive map that will provide a global profile and status of radiopharmacies. This map will also strengthen information sharing and track trends”, said Sandra Popovic-Ovcina, the former Unit Head of Software Solutions, at the IAEA. 

To participate in the survey please follow these steps:  

1. Open the Radiopharmacy Database 
2. Scroll down and click “Submit survey here.” 
3. On the left navigation click “Radiopharmacy DB NAPC” 
4. After the project loads, click the “Data” tab at the top 
5. Then click on '+' button to open the survey form 

To avoid multiple submissions and duplication of data, please consolidate your institution's information before final submission. If you have any questions, please contact us by email.