LUTATHERA® (lutetium Lu 177 dotatate) is a neuroendocrine tumor treatment that slows down or stops tumor growth for adults with a type of cancer known as gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs). LUTATHERA is the first approved medicine from a class of drugs called peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT). Contra Costa Oncology is one of the first cancer clinics in the region to offer this radioactive drug.
How does LUTATHERA® work?
LUTATHERA uses radiation to damage the cancer cells that are positive for the hormone receptor somatostatin. It is given as an infusion and is made up of 2 parts.
- A tumor-targeting part that binds to cancer cells that have somatostatin receptors.
- Once it binds to the cancer cells, it goes into the cell and releases radiation, which then causes damage to the cancer cell.
Once absorbed into the tumor, the radioactive material starts to break down tumor cells, destroying them. This treatment works differently than chemotherapy in that it targets a specific receptor in neuroendocrine tumors and is available for adult patients with low- or intermediate-grade pancreas or gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors.
Results:
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LUTATHERA significantly reduced risk of disease progression or death by 72% as first-line treatment for patients with advanced gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.
Learn more about LUTATHERA – Resources:
- LUTATHERA Patient Brochure – click here to view
- LUTATHERA Patient Passport – learn more
Most common side effects of LUTATHERA:
- Vomiting and nausea
- Fatigue
- Decreased blood cell counts
- Increased liver enzymes
- Decreased blood potassium levels
These are not all the possible side effects of LUTATHERA treatment. Tell your health care provider about all side effects while undergoing LUTATHERA treatment.
Want to schedule an appointment?
To make an appointment call us at (925)939-9610. Referrals welcome, including Kaiser patients.