Description

Lumark Syrup: Uses, Benefits, and Risks
Introduction Lumark syrup contains the radioactive compound lutetium (177Lu) chloride. It is primarily used for radiolabelling other medicines, a technique that tags medicines with radioactive compounds to deliver radioactivity to specific areas in the body, such as tumors.
Uses of Lumark Syrup Lumark is not intended for direct use in patients. Instead, it is used to radiolabel carrier molecules that have been specifically developed and authorized for radiolabelling with lutetium (177Lu) chloride. This process is carried out by specialists in a laboratory setting.
How Lumark Syrup Works The active substance in Lumark, lutetium (177Lu) chloride, emits beta radiation and small amounts of gamma radiation. When a medicine is radiolabelled with Lumark, it carries the radiation to the targeted area in the body. This can be used for both therapeutic and diagnostic purposes:
Therapeutic Use: To kill cancer cells.
Diagnostic Use: To obtain images on a screen.
Benefits of Lumark Syrup The benefits of Lumark largely depend on the medicine it is used to radiolabel. Studies have shown that lutetium (177Lu) is effective in diagnosing and treating neuroendocrine tumors, which affect hormone-secreting cells in various parts of the body, including the pancreas, intestine, stomach, and lungs.
Risks and Side Effects The side effects of Lumark depend on the medicine it is used with. Common side effects include:
Anaemia: Low red blood cell counts.
Thrombocytopenia: Low blood platelet counts.
Leucopenia: Low white blood cell counts.
Lymphopenia: Low levels of lymphocytes.
Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick and vomiting.
Temporary Hair Loss: Mild and temporary hair loss.
Lumark itself is radioactive, and its use may carry a risk of developing cancer and hereditary defects. However, the quantity used is very small, and these risks are considered low. The doctor will ensure that the expected benefits outweigh the risks.
Conclusion Lumark syrup is a specialized radiopharmaceutical used for radiolabelling medicines. Its effectiveness and safety depend on the specific medicine it is used with. While it offers significant benefits in diagnosing and treating certain types of tumors, it also carries potential risks that must be carefully managed by healthcare professionals.