Lutathera is a type of targeted cancer therapy that is generally used to treat advanced neuroendocrine tumors. It is specifically designed to deliver targeted radiation directly to tumor cells, without damaging surrounding healthy cells. But not everybody diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer is eligible for this treatment. Eligibility depends on several factors, such as the size and location of the tumor.
How does Luthathera work?
Luthathera actually belongs to peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT). During Luthathera, a small amount of radioactive material is attached to a molecule. This radioactive material can bind to somatostatin receptors on your neuroendocrine tumor cells. Once attached, this radioactive material can deliver the radiation directly into the cancer cells without harming the healthy tissues around it. This way, doctors can treat you with accuracy without disturbing your quality of life.
What happens during the treatment sessions?
Luthathera is usually not given in any random hospital. It is given through an intravenous (IV) infusion only in a specialized medical center. Doctors may start by giving you an amino acid infusion to help protect your kidneys from radiation. After this, Luthathera is administered over a set timeframe and regularly monitored in each of your sessions. This treatment can go up to multiple weeks, so doctors can assess your treatment response and manage any side effects that occur.
Common side effects
Like every other cancer treatment, Luthathera also has its own side effects. But your experience can be different from others. Some common side effects include nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite. Doctors may also monitor your kidney function or blood cell count in every session to ensure it doesn’t give rise to more complications. But to keep your health on track, it is better if you stay consistent with your regular follow-up visits so doctors can address your concerns early.
Importance of follow-up care
A regular follow-up care visit is crucial during your recovery stage. This can help doctors understand how your body is responding to the treatment, and they can also assess your overall health. You may have to go through a blood test or some imaging scans during these visits. While the treatment outcomes may vary in every condition, Lutathera usually helps slow tumor growth and improve disease control.
Understanding your treatment
Facing a new therapy like Lutathera can be a little confusing in the beginning when you are already going through a cancer diagnosis. Staying informed about your treatment can set realistic expectations, so you stay prepared for the treatment. With open conversations and encouragement, you can face your treatment with peace of mind.