PHARMACOKINETICS AND LOCALIZATION MECHANISMS OF RADIOPHARMACIES: FUNDAMENTALS AND CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

Abstract

This study reviews the pharmacokinetics and targeting mechanisms of radiopharmaceuticals, covering absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, as well as processes that determine their selectivity in imaging diagnostics and radiotherapeutic applications. The objective was to synthesize available knowledge on these mechanisms and their clinical applications, including radiotheranostics and physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models. The methodology consisted of an integrative literature review, with searches in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and SpringerLink, including articles published between 2015 and 2025. Results highlight advances in precise radionuclide delivery, use of targeting vectors, PBPK models, therapeutic radionuclide production, and the application of artificial intelligence in radiopharmaceutical development. Discussion emphasizes therapy personalization and challenges related to production, cost, and regulation. The study concludes that integrating pharmacokinetics, targeting mechanisms, and emerging technologies enables more precise and individualized therapies.