Fludeoxyglucose (18F)

Fludeoxyglucose (18F) Report

Name: Fludeoxyglucose (18F) Name (English): Fludeoxyglucose (18F) DrugBank ID: DB09502 Type: Small Molecule CAS Number: 63503-12-8

Fludeoxyglucose (18F), also known as 18F-FDG, is a radioactive tracer used in positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. It is an analog of glucose, where the hydroxyl group at the C-2 position is replaced by a fluorine-18 atom.

Indications: 18F-FDG is used in PET scans to visualize glucose metabolism in the body. Clinically, it is primarily used in:

• Oncology: Detection, staging, and monitoring of various cancers. Cancer cells typically have higher glucose uptake than normal cells.
• Cardiology: Assessment of myocardial viability in patients with coronary artery disease. Viable myocardium exhibits glucose metabolism.
• Neurology: Evaluation of brain glucose metabolism in conditions such as epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, and brain tumors.

Pharmacodynamics: 18F-FDG is transported into cells by glucose transporters and is phosphorylated by hexokinase to 18F-FDG-6-phosphate. Unlike glucose-6-phosphate, 18F-FDG-6-phosphate cannot be further metabolized and is trapped within the cell. The accumulation of 18F-FDG-6-phosphate reflects the rate of glucose uptake and phosphorylation in tissues.

Pharmacokinetics: Following intravenous administration, 18F-FDG is rapidly distributed throughout the body. It is cleared from most tissues within 24 hours, primarily through urinary excretion.

Adverse Effects: No FDG-specific adverse events have been commonly reported. Reactions are typically related to the injection procedure or potential allergic reactions to other components in the formulation.

Interactions: Medications that affect blood glucose levels, such as corticosteroids, insulin, and antidiabetic agents, can influence 18F-FDG uptake and image interpretation. Colony-stimulating factors can also increase 18F-FDG uptake in the bone marrow.