What role does the pharmaceutical form play in the efficacy of radiopharmaceuticals?

The pharmaceutical form of a radiopharmaceutical significantly affects the route of administration and overall effectiveness. This refers to how the radiopharmaceutical is formulated — whether it is in a liquid, solid, or gaseous state, as well as how it is packaged and delivered. Different forms can influence how the medication is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and eliminated from the body, which ultimately impacts the diagnostic or therapeutic outcomes.

For instance, certain radiopharmaceuticals are more effective when injected directly into the bloodstream, while others may be administered orally or via inhalation. The chosen pharmaceutical form can enhance the drug's bioavailability, ensuring that it reaches the intended target site within the body efficiently, thereby optimizing its effectiveness in diagnostic or therapeutic applications.