153Sm-Oxabiphor
December 26, 2024
Description
153Sm-Oxabiphor, also known as Samarium-153 oxa-bis(ethylenedithio)tetramethylphosphonium acid, is a radiopharmaceutical used for pain relief in patients with osteoblastic skeletal metastases. These metastases typically show up on a 99mTc-bisphosphonate bone scan. 153Sm-Oxabiphor was developed to bypass existing patents and territory restrictions, making it more accessible in certain regions. The drug is mainly available in former CIS countries and parts of Asia.
Clinical Applications
153Sm-Oxabiphor helps relieve pain in patients with osteoblastic metastatic bone lesions. These lesions appear on radionuclide bone scans. The standard dose is around 1.0 mCi/kg. It is effective in reducing bone pain for patients with multiple skeletal metastases.
Availability and Pricing
The primary manufacturer of 153Sm-Oxabiphor is Radiopreparat Enterprise INP, based in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The company exports the product to Russia and other former CIS countries. In Russia, it is distributed by ISMI and is also available from NIFHI. Compared to more advanced therapies, 153Sm-Oxabiphor is more affordable, especially in countries with limited healthcare budgets.
Competitive Landscape
153Sm-Oxabiphor competes with similar agents like 153Sm-Lexidronam. There is heavy competition in the bone pain palliation market. While many treatments focus on pain relief, few have shown an impact on overall survival (OS). One exception is 223Ra-Xofigo, which offers an OS benefit of about three months. However, Xofigo’s high cost limits its use to wealthier countries. This divide has created two distinct markets: countries that can afford expensive treatments and those that continue using cheaper options like 153Sm-Oxabiphor.
Future Prospects
Another similar product, 188Re-Oxabiphor, is being evaluated for comparable uses. Both therapies may offer solutions for bone pain relief in markets with fewer resources. However, it is important to note that 153Sm can be contaminated with 154Eu, which has a long half-life (8.6 years). Despite efforts to reduce contamination, small amounts of 154Eu can remain, affecting long-term safety.