Precision Cancer Care with RLT

RLT is being studied for use across many different types of cancer that affect patients around the US—including cancers of the pancreas and digestive tract, prostate, lungs, breast, and brain, as well as blood cancers and other solid tumors. Across the industry, there are currently about 450 RLT research projects underway, spanning both early-stage and clinical development. 

Novartis is exploring three strategic approaches across our robust investigational RLT programs:

1) Pan-tumor targets with broad potential, including proteins expressed on multiple solid tumors (eg, pancreatic, lung, breast) 

2) Clinically validated targets with a precision focus

3) Radiosensitive indications with unmet needs 

Novartis also collaborates with US academic centers on multi-year projects to address scientific questions and practical site enablement for RLT.  Learn more here. 


Pipeline disclaimer: All pipeline programs are investigational, subject to risks and uncertainties, and not approved for use. No conclusions about safety or efficacy should be drawn from early research.  
 

Novartis was the first company to bring approved RLTs to patients globally, and we continue to expand that leadership in the US. By vertically integrating every aspect of the RLT process, from isotope production to final delivery, we’ve established a system that enables reliable access to these therapies nationwide.

At Novartis, we’ve created a specialized manufacturing and supply chain network designed to meet growing demand while maintaining precision. Each RLT dose is uniquely manufactured for an individual patient. Novartis can deliver RLT doses to most treatment sites within five days of order placement, helping patients begin therapy as soon as possible. Our US production capacity and logistics footprint continue to expand to help ensure on‑time delivery, with patient safety and product quality prioritized at every step.

For more on our manufacturing in the US, visit here.  

Delivering RLTs typically requires communication, planning, and coordination among a multidisciplinary team involving multiple specialties and individuals, with each member of the team helping to fulfill specific roles to streamline the process and provide quality patient care.

Individual practices and responsibilities for RLT may vary on the basis of institutional organization and available resources, but all multidisciplinary teams can optimize RLT treatment by collaborating for patients.
 

Absolutely. Both urologists and medical oncologists play a critical role in connecting eligible patients to advanced treatments like RLT. Their referrals ensure timely access to innovative care for patients, such as those with advanced prostate cancer.

RLT is a highly targeted cancer treatment that combines precision medicine with radiation. Before starting therapy, patients and their caregivers should talk to the doctor about clear, practical safety guidance to ensure confidence and compliance throughout the treatment journey. 

1. Understanding RLT and Its Safety Principles
   • RLT delivers radiation directly to cancer cells with the goal of minimizing exposure to healthy tissue
   • Safety protocols follow the ALARA principle—“as low as reasonably achievable”—to reduce unnecessary radiation exposure
2. Pre-Treatment Preparation
   • Confirm medical fitness and ability to follow radiation precautions
   • Obtain informed consent and explain the treatment process step-by-step
   • Discuss premedications (e.g., antiemetics for nausea) and hydration requirements
3. What to Expect During and After Treatment
   • Patients may emit low levels of radiation for a short period post-treatment
   • Provide written instructions on limiting exposure to others, including:
     • Maintain distance from household contacts for 2 days
     • Avoid close contact with pregnant women and young children for 7 days
     • Follow hygiene measures (flush toilets twice, sleep separately, avoid sexual contact)
4. Discharge and Follow-Up
   • Explain release criteria based on radiation levels and regulatory standards
   • Provide contact information for emergencies and radiation safety offices

Radiation is a natural part of everyday life. Most annual exposure comes from background sources such as cosmic rays, terrestrial radiation, and naturally occurring materials, averaging about 6.2 millisieverts (mSv) per year for the general population.

By comparison, nuclear medicine—including RLT—accounts for only about 0.77 mSv annually, roughly 12% of total exposure. For comparison, a single banana produces about 0.1 microsieverts (μSv) from its potassium content. While individual diagnostic or therapeutic procedures may involve higher doses, their contribution to overall yearly exposure remains minimal when viewed in context. 

Your safety—and the safety of our communities—is our top priority. Radiation waste management is a critical pillar in the operation of facilities utilizing RLT to ensure not only the protection of patients, staff, and surrounding communities but also adherence to stringent regulatory frameworks. 

Every licensed center follows comprehensive decontamination and waste disposal protocols, as outlined in its Radioactive Material (RAM) license application. These procedures are designed to meet federal and state requirements and are grounded in the ALARA principle—“as low as reasonably achievable”—to minimize exposure to ionizing radiation while maintaining the highest safety standards.

By prioritizing robust waste management practices, facilities demonstrate their commitment to regulatory compliance, environmental stewardship, and public health—key considerations for policymakers and investors focused on sustainable and responsible healthcare innovation.