Samarium (153Sm) lexidronam

It is injected into a vein and distributed throughout the body, where it is preferentially absorbed in areas where cancer has invaded the bone. The radioisotope ¹⁵³Sm, with a half-life of 46.3 hours, decays by emitting beta particles (electrons), which kill the nearby cells. Pain begins to improve in the first week for most people and the effects can last several months. It is commonly used in lung cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, and osteosarcoma.

Side effects

Side effects include the following:

• Black, tarry stools
• Blood in urine/stool
• Cough, hoarseness
• Fever/chills
• Lower back/side pain
• Painful or difficult urination
• Pinpoint red spots on skin
• Irregular heartbeat
• Nausea, vomiting