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VARIOUS › DIAGNOSTIC RADIOPHARMACEUTICALS › SKELETON › Technetium (99mTc) compounds
technetium (99mTc) butedronic acid
V09BA04
Forms & Strengths
- Technetium-99m butedronic acid kit (lyophilized 20 mg butedronic acid)
- Radiolabeling yields 740 MBq (20 mCi) per vial after reconstitution
- Sterile, pyrogen‑free solution for IV injection
Adult Dosing
- Inject 740 MBq (20 mCi) IV 1–3 h before imaging
- If renal impairment or low body weight, reduce to 370 MBq (10 mCi)
- Do not exceed total administered activity of 1 GBq (27 mCi) in a single study
Pediatric Dosing
- Weight‑based dosing: 5 MBq/kg (max 370 MBq) IV
- For children <30 kg, typical dose 185 MBq (5 mCi)
- Adjust dose downward if concurrent renal dysfunction
Indications
- Bone scintigraphy for detection of skeletal metastases
- Evaluation of unexplained bone pain or suspected fractures
- Assessment of Paget disease, osteomyelitis, and prosthetic loosening
Mechanism of Action
- Butedronic acid, a bisphosphonate, binds hydroxyapatite at sites of active bone turnover
- 99mTc emits 140 keV gamma photons captured on gamma camera
- Provides high bone‑to‑soft‑tissue contrast for planar or SPECT imaging
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to butedronic acid or technetium‑99m compounds
- Pregnancy (radiation risk to fetus)
- Breast‑feeding (avoid until radiopharmaceutical cleared)
Adverse Reactions
- Transient flushing, warmth, or metallic taste during injection
- Mild nausea or vomiting
- Injection‑site pain or erythema
- Rare urticaria, bronchospasm, or anaphylactic reaction
Drug Interactions
- Concurrent high‑dose calcium or magnesium supplements may reduce skeletal uptake
- Recent administration of other bisphosphonates can compete for binding sites
- Avoid iodinated contrast agents within 24 h of imaging (may alter biodistribution)
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use