Ra-223 (radium-223) is an alpha particle-emitting radiopharmaceutical with targeted uptake in areas of osteoblastic lesions. The combination of targeted skeletal uptake, short tissue-penetration range, and high energy of alpha particles allows for targeted cell killing and a low toxicity profile.
A phase III trial (ALSYMPCA) demonstrated improvements in overall survival and symptomatic skeletal events in patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer and multifocal symptomatic bone metastases. Adverse events were limited but included both gastrointestinal and hematologic effects.
This article will describe the historic background of Ra-223; outline the clinical studies which led to phase III trials of this agent; highlight key results of these phase III studies; and explore possible future directions for use of Ra-223 and other alpha particles-both in prostate cancer and for management of other diseases.
Oncology (Williston Park). 2015 Jul;29(7). pii: 212292.
Lewis B, Chalhoub E, Chalouhy C, Sartor AO.
This webpage is supported through an unrestricted educational grant from Bayer. Bayer is not involved in content development and the views expressed represent those of the patient and physician contributors.

