What Is Florbetapir F 18

Florbetapir F 18 is in a group of drugs called diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals (RAY dee oh far ma SOO tik als). Florbetapir F 18 is a radioactive agent that allows images of specific organs in the body to be detected by a PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scan.
Florbetapir F 18 is used together with a PET scan to detect the amount of plaque in the brain. Plaque is a build-up of certain proteins and diseased nerve cells that is often found in the brain of a person who has signs of Alzheimer's disease or other causes of dementia.
Florbetapir F 18 may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
To make sure you can safely receive florbetapir F 18, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions.
Do not breast-feed within 24 hours after receiving florbetapir F 18. If you use a breast pump during this time, throw out any milk you collect. Do not feed it to your baby.
Receiving a radioactive agent such as florbetapir F 18 may increase your long-term risk of developing cancer. Talk with your doctor about your specific risk.
To make sure you can safely receive florbetapir F 18, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions.
Receiving a radioactive agent may increase your long-term risk of developing cancer. Talk with your doctor about your specific risk.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether florbetapir F 18 will harm an unborn baby. Before you receive florbetapir F 18, tell your doctor if you are pregnant.
Do not breast-feed within 24 hours after receiving florbetapir F 18. If you use a breast pump during this time, throw out any milk you collect. Do not feed it to your baby.

Florbetapir F 18 Side Effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Less serious side effects may include:

• headache;
• joint or muscle pain;
• nausea; or
• feeling tired.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Florbetapir F 18 Interactions

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
There may be other drugs that can interact with florbetapir F 18. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Florbetapir F 18 Dosage

Florbetapir F 18 is injected into a vein through an IV. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. It is usually given within 30 to 50 minutes before your radiologic test.
Since this medication is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.
Since florbetapir F 18 is used as a single dose, it does not have a daily dosing schedule.