Practical Considerations for Implementation of ¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTATATE Neuroendocrine Tumor Treatment Programs

The 2018 FDA approval of ¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTATATE for the treatment of somatostatin receptor-positive (SSTR) neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) represents a paradigm shifting approach to cancer treatments around the globe. Gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) NETs overexpress the somatostatin subtype receptor 2, which is now exploited for receptor-based imaging and therapy, thus generating significant progress in the diagnosis and treatment of this orphan disease. The recent FDA approval of receptor-based PET radiopharmaceuticals and a new peptide receptor radiopharmaceutical therapy (PRRT), ¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTATATE, has dramatically impacted NET patient management. The focus of this paper is to review clinical considerations associated with implementing a ¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTATATE program. We review receptor-based NET radiopharmaceuticals, ¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTATATE patient selection criteria, administration methods, clinical, regulatory, and radiation safety considerations, technical factors, tissue dosimetry, and reimbursement guidelines.