Optimization of [¹⁸F]Fallypride synthesis for distribution over long distances

Specialized radiotracers, especially those that are not FDA approved, are often only available at academic research facilities. This restricts patient demographics and prevents patients from being able to participate or benefit from cutting edge medical advancement. We have developed an optimized method for the synthesis and long-distance shipment of a radiotracer used in clinical research regarding dopamine D2/D3 receptors, [¹⁸F]Fallypride. The radiotracer was obtained in 7% n.d.c. radiochemical yield, passed all required QA/QC requirements, and was shipped to a location 7 h drive from the synthesis site. The delivered tracer was used to obtain PET/CT images comparable to a locally made radiotracer.