What is Lu PSMA (Lutetium-Prostate Specific Membrane Antigen) Therapy?

Lu177 PSMA Therapy is a treatment for patients with prostate cancer, especially those who have become refractory to conventional therapy. Lutetium PSMA therapy helps to slow down the growth of the cancer cells, reduce the size of the tumours and most importantly improve the quality of life of the patients by reducing the pain caused by the cancer.

Many prostate cancers, in particular those that have spread or become resistant to hormonal therapies, express a unique receptor on their cell surface called Prostate Specific Membrane Antigen (PSMA). When Prostate Cancer metastasizes i.e. spreads to other parts of the body, the PSMA receptor is expressed over the sites of metastases as well.

How does Lu PSMA Therapy Work?

Lutetium-177 is a radioactive substance that emits beta radiation, a destructive kind of radiation. Lutetium-177 is bound to a small peptide which attaches to the PSMA receptor expressed on the cancer cell surface. The Lutetium 177 – PSMA complex, thus attached to the prostate cancer cell, then emits killing radiation causing cell death of the cancer cell. Since the penetration of the emitted beta particle is very small, the surrounding normal cells are spared.

How is the Therapy Done?

Lu177 PSMA is administered intravenously. The patient is admitted to the hospital for 24 hours. A kidney function scan called a MAG3/EC scan is done prior to the administration of the Lu177 PSMA.

What are the Side Effects of Lu PSMA Therapy?

Lu177 PSMA is well tolerated. The most common side effects are a slightly dry mouth, fatigue and nausea. There may also be a slight fall in the white blood cells and platelets about 2 – 3 weeks after the Lu177 PSMA administration.

What is the Response Rate With Lu PSMA Therapy?

The response rates of Lu177 PSMA depend on the tumour biology of prostate cancer, the initial Gleason Score, the extent of disease and the responses to prior therapies. Typically, more than 70% of patients demonstrate a reduction in S. PSA and a shrinkage of tumours following Lu177 PSMA therapy.

When would the doctor consider using this Therapy?

Lu PSMA Therapy is a very specific therapy and is used for managing metastatic Prostate Cancer or when Prostate Cancer is no longer responsive to other types of treatment.

What are the Treatment Schedules with Lu PSMA Therapy?

Most patients undergo three-four treatment cycles at intervals of 8-12 weeks. The number of cycles and the interim duration may vary between individuals depending on the response and interim assessments.

Why should I choose the nuclear medicine therapy center at Fortis Memorial & Research Institute (FMRI), Gurugram (Haryana, India)?

The Nuclear Medicine Therapy Centre at FMRI was one of the first institutes to offer Radio-ligand Therapy with Lu PSMA, and today, the center receives patients from the country and from across the world.

The Global Hub for Cost-Effective, On-Demand Radioligand Therapy

Summary (10 sec read)

Radioligand therapies have revolutionized cancer treatment, offering targeted approaches for conditions like prostate and neuroendocrine tumors. However, the high costs in many countries make these treatments inaccessible to many patients. India has emerged as a global hub for cost-effective, on-demand radioligand therapies, providing world-class care at a fraction of the price found elsewhere. This article compares the costs of various radioligand therapies across different countries, highlight

Radioligand therapy (RLT) has become a game-changer in the treatment of cancers such as prostate and neuroendocrine tumors. However, the high costs of these therapies in Western countries make them inaccessible to many. India has emerged as a global hub for advanced radioligand therapies, offering world-class treatment at the lowest costs worldwide, combined with unparalleled accessibility.

This article provides a comparative overview of costs for various radioligand therapies globally and underscores why India is the preferred destination for international patients.

Global Cost Comparison of Radioligand Therapies

1. Lutetium-177 PSMA Therapy

Used primarily for prostate cancer, this targeted therapy delivers radiation directly to cancer cells.

United States: $30,000 to $50,000 per cycle
Germany: $11,000 to $16,500 per cycle
Turkey: $10,000 to $15,000 per cycle
Israel: $20,000 to $25,000 per cycle
United Kingdom: $19,500 to $26,000 per cycle
Australia: $18,000 to $21,500 per cycle
India: $8,530 per cycle

2. Lutetium-177 PRRT Therapy

Designed for neuroendocrine tumors, this therapy binds to specific receptors on cancer cells.

United States: $40,000 to $60,000 per cycle
Germany: $13,200 to $22,000 per cycle
Turkey: $12,000 to $18,000 per cycle
Israel: $25,000 to $30,000 per cycle
United Kingdom: $23,400 to $32,500 per cycle
Australia: $21,500 to $25,000 per cycle
India: $7,180 per cycle

3. Actinium-225 PSMA Therapy

An innovative treatment utilizing alpha particles, known for precision and minimal side effects.

United States and Europe: Still in clinical trials; costs expected to exceed other therapies
India: $15,000 per cycle

4. Transarterial Radioembolization (TARE) with Yttrium-90

A cutting-edge therapy for liver tumors, it delivers radiation directly to the tumor through the bloodstream.

United States: $50,000 to $100,000 per treatment
Germany: $22,000 to $44,000 per treatment
Turkey: $20,000 to $30,000 per treatment
Israel: $40,000 to $60,000 per treatment
United Kingdom: $32,500 to $45,500 per treatment
Australia: $28,500 to $35,500 per treatment
India: $27,865 per treatment

Additional Cost Information for Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and Hong Kong

While specific cost data for radioligand therapies in Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and Hong Kong are limited, these countries are known for their advanced medical facilities and have been offering radioligand therapies. However, the costs in these regions are generally higher compared to India. For instance, treatments in Singapore and Hong Kong can range from $20,000 to $40,000 per cycle, depending on the specific therapy and healthcare facility. Thailand and Malaysia offer more competitive pricing, but still higher than India’s rates, with costs ranging from $15,000 to $25,000 per cycle. Patients are encouraged to contact medical centers in these countries directly for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

Why India is the Preferred Destination for Radioligand Therapy

Unbeatable Costs

India offers the lowest costs for radioligand therapies globally, often at a fraction of the price charged in Western countries.

On-Demand Treatment

Unlike the long waiting periods experienced in many countries, Indian centers offer quick access to treatment, with most therapies available weekly. Actinium-225 therapy, a highly specialized procedure, is performed monthly.

World-Class Expertise

India’s nuclear medicine centers are equipped with advanced technology and staffed by globally recognized experts.

Meet Dr. Ishita B. Sen: A Pioneer in Nuclear Medicine

Our center is helmed by Dr. Ishita B. Sen, a distinguished Nuclear Medicine Specialist with over two decades of experience. Dr. Sen has specialized training from leading global institutions, including Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in the USA and the University of Marburg in Germany. She is a pioneer in Nuclear Oncology and Radionuclide Therapy, with numerous publications and leadership roles in the field.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Our center is equipped with cutting-edge technology and adheres to the highest standards of patient care. International patients are provided with comprehensive assistance, including visa facilitation, accommodation, and translation services.

Plan Your Treatment with Us

India is not just a cost-effective destination; it is a center of excellence for radioligand therapies. With experienced specialists, modern facilities, and quick access to treatment, patients can receive world-class care without financial strain.

For more information, visit www.nuclearmedicinetherapy.in.

Disclaimer

The costs mentioned are indicative and subject to change without notice. These prices have been compiled using publicly available resources. We are not responsible for any inaccuracies in the data.

By choosing India, patients can access cutting-edge radioligand therapies at the world’s lowest costs, ensuring the best of care and value.