Locametz

Locametz (gallium Ga 68 gozetotide) is a radiotracer. It's one of the tracers used that can be used with PET scans to help your provider see where the prostate cancer cells are in your body. It's used for males with prostate cancer that has either spread to other organs or has come back after a period of time (recurrence). Locametz (gallium Ga 68 gozetotide) works by attaching to a protein called prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA). Prostate cancer cells make a lot more of this protein than healthy cells do. By attaching to PSMA, Locametz (gallium Ga 68 gozetotide) tags these cancer cells. Your provider is then able to see where the cancer cells are.

Gallium Ga 68 gozetotide is available as two brand-name products, Locametz and Illuccix. Both tracers are injected into the veins by a healthcare provider on your imaging day. They're typically given an hour or so before the PET scan. Make sure to stay hydrated and urinate frequently before, during, and after receiving gallium Ga 68 gozetotide. Doing so can help to lower the risk of radiation exposure.

Most people experience few to no side effects while using Locametz (gallium Ga 68 gozetotide) as directed. Those who did report side effects experienced symptoms such as feeling tired, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel movement. Some people also noted injection site reactions, such as bruising, chills, and warmth at the injection site. Tell your provider right away if you experience any of these side effects after the injection.

Because Locametz (gallium Ga 68 gozetotide) is radioactive, there's a slight chance that it can raise your risk for cancer if you're also exposed to other sources of radioactivity over a long period of time. Please note that your provider only uses a very small amount of Locametz (gallium Ga 68 gozetotide) before imaging to prevent exposing you to too much radiation. Make sure to drink a lot of water and urinate often before, during, and for a few hours after you've received Locametz (gallium Ga 68 gozetotide). This can help to wash any leftover radioactive tracer out of your body. If you're concerned about the safety of Locametz (gallium Ga 68 gozetotide) or other imaging agents, talk with your provider.

Before you go in for your PET scan, your provider will prepare you with specific instructions to help you get ready for the appointment. As stated in the above FAQ, make sure to drink a lot of water and urinate often before and after your scan to lower your risk of radiation exposure. In addition, avoid exercising for 24 hours before your scan.