Where is Fluorine-18 (F18 FDG) commonly produced?

Fluorine-18 (F18) is commonly produced in a cyclotron, which is a type of particle accelerator. In this facility, protons are accelerated and bombarded onto a target material, typically enriched with oxygen, which leads to the production of F18 through a nuclear reaction. This method is favored for producing F18 because it allows for a higher yield of this isotope in a relatively short time frame, enabling efficient and timely manufacturing of F18 FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose), which is crucial for PET (Positron Emission Tomography) imaging.

The cyclotron's ability to produce F18 in a manner that meets clinical demands is significant, especially since F18 has a half-life of about 110 minutes, requiring rapid synthesis and distribution. Thus, the cyclotron plays a pivotal role in the radiopharmaceutical industry by ensuring that the necessary isotopes are available for medical procedures when needed.