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Lutetium‑177 PSMA Therapy for Prostate Cancer | Advanced Treatment in Germany
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Lutetium‑177 PSMA Therapy for Prostate Cancer


Prostate cancer is one of the most common oncological diseases among men worldwide and remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. According to the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN), more than 1.4 million new cases of prostate cancer were diagnosed in 2020, making it the second most frequently diagnosed cancer in men after lung cancer [1]. Despite improvements in early detection, a significant number of men still present with advanced prostate cancer, which is more difficult to treat and often associated with poorer survival outcomes.

When the disease is identified at the localized stage, modern treatment methods – such as surgery, external beam radiation therapy, or active surveillance – can be highly effective, with five-year survival rates exceeding 95% [1]. However, once the tumor spreads beyond the prostate, the outlook changes: men diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer face reduced survival rates, as the cancer often progresses despite hormonal therapy or chemotherapy. Traditional treatment options for advanced disease may help slow progression, but they frequently come with significant side effects and limited long-term efficacy.

In recent years, medical science has shifted toward a more targeted treatment paradigm, aiming to destroy cancer cells selectively while sparing healthy tissues. One of the most innovative methods is Lutetium 177 PSMA therapy – a form of molecular radioligand therapy that combines precision imaging with highly effective therapeutic action [2]. This approach has shown encouraging results in men with advanced and metastatic disease who have exhausted standard treatment lines, offering both improved survival and better quality of life.

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The Principle of Lutetium 177 PSMA Therapy

Lutetium 177 PSMA therapy (often abbreviated as Lu-177 PSMA) represents one of the most promising advances in nuclear medicine for men with advanced or metastatic prostate cancer. Unlike traditional chemotherapy or hormonal treatments that act on the whole body, this therapy belongs to the class of radionuclide therapy, where radioactive isotopes are attached to molecules that seek out and destroy cancer cells [2, 3].

What makes this approach unique is its use of the prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) – a protein found in very high amounts on the surface of most prostate cancer cells, especially in aggressive or advanced stages of the disease [2]. By taking advantage of this biological "flag" on tumor cells, doctors can deliver targeted treatment directly where it is needed.

For a visual explanation, you can watch this short video:

Targeting Prostate Cancer at the Cellular Level: Treatment with Lutetium-177 PSMA

Prostate cancer treatment with Lutetium 177

How PSMA Targeting Works

To understand how the Lutetium 177 PSMA radioligand therapy finds and treats prostate cancer, it helps to break the process into steps:

  • PSMA expression: Research shows that 80-95% of prostate cancers produce large amounts of PSMA. This makes it an excellent "target" for therapy.
  • Ligand binding: Scientists have developed a small carrier molecule, called a ligand, that is designed to stick only to PSMA proteins on the cancer cell surface.
  • Radiolabeling: This ligand is chemically joined with Lutetium-177, a radioactive isotope. Because it is a beta emitter, it can release radiation that kills cells.
  • Cell destruction: After the Lu-177 PSMA compound is injected into a patient's vein, it circulates through the bloodstream, finds the PSMA-positive tumor cells, and attaches to them. Once bound, the isotope delivers tiny doses of radiation that destroy the malignant tissue [3-5].

In simple terms, the ligand acts like a "guided missile," PSMA is the "target," and Lutetium-177 is the "payload" that destroys the cancer.

Mechanism of Receptor-Mediated Endocytosis upon Radioligand-Based PSMA Binding to PSMA
Mechanism of Receptor-Mediated Endocytosis upon Radioligand-Based PSMA Binding to PSMA[3]

Mechanism of Action of Lutetium-177

The power of Lutetium-177 lies in its dual property:

  • Therapeutic action: It releases beta particles that penetrate only 0.2-2 mm into the surrounding tissue. This short range is long enough to kill cancer cells but short enough to leave most nearby healthy cells untouched.
  • Diagnostic action: At the same time, Lutetium-177 gives off a small amount of gamma radiation. This can be captured on a scan, allowing doctors to see exactly where the drug has gone and how the cancer is responding [4, 5].

This combination of therapy and imaging is known as theranostics. It gives physicians two advantages at once: they can treat prostate cancer and check whether the treatment is working, all with the same agent.

Mechanism of action of lutetium-177-labeled prostate-specific membrane antigen
Mechanism of action of Lutetium-177-Labeled Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen: PSMA-617 Targeting Ligand Radiolabeled with [177Lu] Binds to PSMA Molecule on the Prostate Cancer Cell Membrane >177Lu-Atom Releases ß and γ Particles > DNA Damage > Cell Death. [5]

Advantages of Beta Radiation

It is necessary to note that the type of radiation used is especially important. Beta radiation from Lutetium-177 has several advantages:

  • Minimal collateral damage: Because it penetrates only a few millimeters, it avoids harming healthy tissue further away from the tumor.
  • Targeting micrometastases: Small, early metastatic deposits – often invisible to conventional imaging – can still be destroyed.
  • Effectiveness in hard-to-treat areas: In cases of bone metastases or liver involvement, where external radiation therapy is often less effective or too toxic, Lu-177 PSMA can be particularly valuable [4, 5].

Why It Is Effective Even in Metastatic Cases

As previously mentioned, traditional therapies often lose their effectiveness once the cancer spreads widely. In contrast, Lu-PSMA therapy has several strengths that make it successful even in late-stage disease:

  • Selective binding: It does not just attack the primary prostate tumor but also finds and treats distant metastases throughout the body.
  • Repeatable cycles: The therapy can be given in multiple rounds, usually 3-6, with each cycle spaced several weeks apart. This flexibility allows doctors to adapt treatment to how well a patient is responding.
  • Good tolerance: Unlike chemotherapy, which often causes hair loss, severe nausea, or immune suppression, Lu-PSMA is generally well-tolerated, with side effects that are milder and easier to manage [4, 5].

In short, Lutetium 177 PSMA therapy offers a good balance: it is both aggressive against metastatic prostate cancer and gentle enough to preserve quality of life.

Goals of Treating Prostate Cancer with Lu-177

The primary aim of Lu-PSMA therapy is to provide real and measurable benefits for men with advanced prostate cancer, especially those whose disease has spread (metastatic prostate cancer) and no longer responds to hormone therapy or chemotherapy [2, 3]. Specifically, this modern therapy focuses on four main goals:

  1. Extending survival: For many prostate cancer patients, the most important outcome is living longer. Clinical trials have shown that men treated with Lu-PSMA survive several months longer compared to those on standard therapy [3-5].
  2. Controlling the spread of cancer: One of the biggest challenges in metastatic prostate cancer is that tumors can spread to many areas – bones, lymph nodes, or organs like the liver. Lu-PSMA is designed to seek out and destroy these hidden cancer cells wherever they are located [5].
  3. Improving quality of life: Living longer is important, but so is living better. Because Lu-PSMA delivers radiation only to cancer cells, patients often experience: less pain, especially bone pain; more energy and improved mobility; and fewer serious side effects compared to chemotherapy [4, 5]. For many prostate cancer patients, this improvement in daily life is just as valuable as survival.
  4. Shrinking tumor burden: Doctors track how well a treatment is working by measuring prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in the blood and monitoring tumor size on imaging. PSA is a protein produced by both normal and malignant prostate cells. In healthy men, PSA levels are usually below 4 ng/mL; values between 4-10 ng/mL may suggest an increased risk of prostate cancer, and levels above 10 ng/mL are more strongly associated with malignancy.

With Lu-PSMA therapy, strong biochemical responses are often seen, such as a significant drop in PSA levels – in many studies, a decline of 50% or more is considered a clear sign that the treatment is working. This reduction signals that the cancer cell population is shrinking. Smaller tumors can relieve symptoms, reduce pressure on nearby organs, and make subsequent treatments more effective [5, 6].

Preparation for PSMA Therapy

Before starting Lu-PSMA therapy, prostate cancer patients go through a careful preparation process. This step is essential for two reasons: it ensures that the treatment will be safe, and it maximizes the chances of success. Because this is not a one-size-fits-all therapy, doctors in nuclear medicine and medical oncology work together to confirm that each patient is a suitable candidate [4, 5].

In many cases, this preparation itself brings peace of mind, as patients know that every detail is being checked and that the treatment is tailored to their unique health status.

Key Steps in Patient Preparation

Clinical evaluation:

  • Eligibility assessment: Only prostate cancer patients with confirmed PSMA-positive disease are eligible. This is verified through special scans such as PSMA PET/CT. Patients with PSMA-negative scans are usually excluded from Lu-PSMA therapy and may be offered alternative treatment options.
  • Multidisciplinary review: A team of specialists – usually including urologists, oncologists, radiologists, and nuclear medicine experts – reviews the patient's history, current condition, and test results. This teamwork ensures no detail is overlooked.

Laboratory tests:

  • Blood tests: Doctors check blood counts (to ensure bone marrow is strong enough), as well as liver and kidney function (since these organs help process and eliminate the drug).
  • Urine analysis: Evaluates kidney performance, which is critical because the radioactive compound is cleared through the urinary system.
  • These baseline tests give doctors a clear picture of the body's resilience and help detect possible contraindications.

Imaging studies:

  • PSMA PET/CT or SPECT scans: Map where the tumors are located and confirm PSMA expression.
  • MRI or ultrasound: Provide additional detail about the size and spread of the tumor in the prostate or nearby organs.
  • Scintigraphy: Conducted before therapy to measure the overall disease burden, serving as a starting point for later comparison.
SPECT Scans (Anterior and Posterior) of the Same Patient (a and b), Obtained at 24 h Postadministration of the First and Second Therapeutic Doses of 177Lu-PSMA-617
SPECT Scans (Anterior and Posterior) of the Same Patient (a and b), Obtained at 24 h Postadministration of the First and Second Therapeutic Doses of 177Lu-PSMA-617. [7]

Risk Minimization Measures

Doctors also take preventive steps to protect organs and reduce potential side effects:

MeasurePurpose
Allergy testChecks for hypersensitivity to the PSMA-ligand before infusion.
Renal function monitoringPrevents kidney complications, since Lu-PSMA is cleared through the kidneys.
Hydration protocolEncourages faster flushing of radioactive compounds from the body.
Cooling of salivary glandsProtects against dry mouth and salivary gland irritation, a common mild side effect.

Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

Moreover, preparation does not end in the hospital – prostate cancer patients are also given easy-to-follow instructions at home:

  • Dietary adjustments: Avoiding alcohol, fatty, and fried foods for a few days before therapy helps reduce strain on the liver.
  • Hydration: Drinking more fluids before and after therapy supports the kidneys in clearing the radioactive material.
  • Medication review: Some drugs that affect kidney function may need to be paused. This is done under strict medical supervision to avoid risks.

In other words, preparation for Lu-PSMA therapy is a personalized process that ensures patients are safe, the treatment is effective, and the risk of complications is kept as low as possible.

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How the Procedure Works

For men with metastatic prostate cancer, undergoing Lutetium 177 PSMA therapy is a structured and monitored process. It is carried out in specialized nuclear medicine or radiation oncology departments, usually on an inpatient basis [3-5].

Hospital Admission and Setup

Most patients are admitted for 3-4 days. During this time:

  • Doctors review recent imaging and laboratory results to confirm readiness for therapy.
  • Risk factors are assessed, and the patient has a detailed consultation about what to expect.
  • Protective strategies, such as hydration protocols and salivary gland cooling, are explained clearly so patients know how side effects will be minimized.

This preparatory phase reassures prostate cancer patients that every detail is checked before the therapy begins.

Step-by-Step Administration

Intravenous infusion:

  • The actual treatment begins with a simple IV infusion of the radiopharmaceutical containing Lutetium 177 PSMA.
  • Once in the bloodstream, the compound travels throughout the body, seeking out and attaching to prostate cancer cells that carry the PSMA marker.

Targeted radiation delivery. Once bound to the cancer, the drug emits beta particles that penetrate only 0.2-2 mm. As discussed earlier, this short range allows precise destruction of tumors – including difficult-to-treat bone metastases – while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.

Safety measures:

  • Kidney protection: Patients are encouraged to drink fluids to help flush radioactive material safely.
  • Salivary gland cooling: Ice packs or cooling devices are placed on the cheeks to reduce uptake in the glands and lower the risk of dry mouth.
  • Medication support: Antiemetics (to prevent nausea) and pain relievers are provided as needed.

Multiple Therapy Cycles

Unlike chemotherapy, which is often given daily or weekly, Lu-PSMA therapy is delivered in 3-6 cycles, each spaced 6-8 weeks apart.

  • The exact number of cycles depends on how well the tumor responds and how well the patient tolerates treatment.
  • Clinical studies show that prostate cancer patients who complete multiple cycles achieve better response rates and longer survival compared to those who stop after just one or two sessions [4, 5].

Side Effect Management

Overall, Lu-PSMA therapy is considered safe and much easier to tolerate than chemotherapy. Still, some side effects can occur:

  • Fatigue (20-30%)
  • Xerostomia, or dry mouth, due to salivary gland uptake (10-20%)
  • Mild nausea (10-15%)
  • Temporary drops in blood counts from bone marrow suppression (rare)

These side effects are usually mild and manageable, and most resolve after treatment cycles end.

Comparison with External Beam Radiation Therapy

As previously mentioned, External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) is one of the most common types of radiation therapy used in prostate cancer treatment. It may seem unusual to compare EBRT with Lutetium 177 PSMA therapy, since they are used at different stages of prostate cancer. Specifically, EBRT is a localized treatment, often offered in earlier disease, while Lu-PSMA is a systemic radionuclide therapy used for advanced or metastatic prostate cancer [8]. However, placing the two side by side helps highlight what makes Lu-PSMA unique.

  • External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): Very effective for localized prostate cancer, but less suitable for widespread disease. Toxicity becomes a problem when trying to irradiate multiple metastases.
  • Lutetium 177 PSMA Therapy: Works systemically – meaning it circulates through the body and targets both visible and microscopic metastases. It is also well tolerated, even in men who have already received extensive prior treatments.

This comparison demonstrates how the treatment paradigm in prostate cancer is evolving: from traditional, localized radiation approaches like EBRT to innovative systemic therapies such as Lu-PSMA, which can bring hope even in late stages of disease.

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Efficiency Control and Follow-Up

The success of Lu-PSMA therapy for prostate cancer is not measured only by how a patient feels during treatment, but also by ongoing follow-up. This follow-up is crucial for two reasons: it shows whether the therapy is providing effective metastasis control, and it helps doctors decide if more treatment cycles are needed or if it is time to consider alternative treatment options [4, 5].

By combining medical imaging, lab tests, and the patient's own experience, physicians build a complete picture of progress – ensuring that each step of care is tailored to individual needs.

Methods of Treatment Monitoring

Imaging studies help evaluate therapy response:

  • Scintigraphy/SPECT: After each cycle, these scans show how much of the radioligand has been absorbed by tumors and whether activity has decreased.
  • PSMA PET/CT: This highly sensitive scan can detect even tiny deposits of disease, confirming whether cancer cells remain active.
  • MRI or CT scans: Provide detailed pictures of tumor size and anatomy, helping to track shrinkage and involvement of nearby organs.

Laboratory markers. Blood and urine tests complement imaging by providing biological evidence of response:

  • PSA decline: As previously noted, a drop of ≥50% in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is widely accepted as a strong indicator that the therapy is working.
  • Blood counts: Regular checks of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets help catch temporary bone marrow suppression early.
  • Liver and kidney tests: Since Lu-PSMA is cleared through these organs, ongoing monitoring ensures treatment remains safe.

Clinical evaluation. Doctors also look at how the patient feels day to day:

  • Many men report less bone pain, especially when metastases are present.
  • Improved energy, mobility, and reduced fatigue are positive signs that therapy is improving quality of life.

In summary, efficiency control and follow-up are not just routine check-ups – they are a vital part of Lu-PSMA therapy. They allow doctors to measure tumor shrinkage, confirm reduced cancer cell activity, and ensure prostate cancer patients treated with this therapy get the most personalized and effective care possible.

Benefits of Prostate Cancer Treatment with Lutetium-177

The introduction of Lutetium 177 PSMA radioligand therapy has reshaped the treatment paradigm for men with metastatic prostate cancer and those with advanced disease that no longer responds to standard therapies. In fact, clinical studies from around the world – including Germany, where Lutetium prostate cancer therapy was first widely adopted – have consistently shown great results.

Improved Survival

For example, the VISION trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2021, studied 831 men with advanced, treatment-resistant prostate cancer. It found that prostate cancer patients receiving Lutetium 177 PSMA therapy lived a median of 15.3 months, compared with 11.3 months in those who continued standard care [9]. This was the first large-scale evidence that Lu-PSMA could extend survival even in late stages of the disease.

Strong Biological Response

Similarly, the TheraP trial, published in The Lancet the same year, compared Lu-PSMA with a chemotherapy drug often used when other treatments fail. Among 200 prostate cancer patients, 66% of men treated with Lu-PSMA achieved a PSA decline of at least 50%, compared with only 37% in the chemotherapy group. This confirmed not only survival benefits but also a much stronger biological response.

Effective Metastasis Control

Earlier evidence from German centers further reinforced these findings. A multicenter study led by Rahbar and colleagues in 2017 included 145 prostate cancer patients with resistant disease. After Lu-PSMA therapy, about three out of four patients experienced either partial remission or stable disease. These results showed that the therapy could provide effective metastasis control even when conventional options had been exhausted.

Where Is It Best to Undergo PSMA Therapy?

Germany is widely recognized as one of the global leaders in Lutetium 177 PSMA therapy. At the heart of the country's success are its Comprehensive Cancer Centers. These centers bring together experts from multiple disciplines – urologists, oncologists, radiologists, and radiation oncology specialists – to create treatment plans tailored to each patient.

For patients, choosing a Comprehensive Cancer Center means more than access to advanced technology. It means:

  • Integrated care: Imaging, therapy, and follow-up all under one roof.
  • Access to innovation: Opportunities to participate in experimental protocols and clinical trials.
  • Coordinated support: Effective collaboration between different specialists, ensuring every aspect of prostate cancer care is considered.

This collaborative, evidence-based approach is why Germany is regarded as one of the best destinations worldwide for Lu-PSMA treatment. For many patients, it combines hope with confidence that they are receiving the most advanced prostate cancer care available today.

Why Choose Germany for Lu-PSMA Therapy?

  • Experience and leadership in research: German specialists were among the leaders of Lutetium 177 PSMA, with thousands of patients treated since 2015. Many of the most important clinical trials have been led or co-authored by German teams.
  • Multidisciplinary care: Lu-PSMA therapy is delivered within a network of specialists who also provide access to other treatment options like surgery, systemic therapy, or immunotherapy, ensuring prostate cancer care is never limited to a single approach.
  • Modern facilities: Hospitals are equipped with advanced PET/CT scanners, dosimetry systems, and protective protocols that ensure precision and patient safety at every step.
  • Comprehensive patient programs: Many German centers support international patients with English-speaking coordinators, travel assistance, and hospital navigation, making the treatment journey less stressful.

Leading German Clinics for Lutetium 177 PSMA Therapy

If you are considering therapy in Germany, here are some of the best-known hospitals:

HospitalDepartmentKey Features
Helios Hospital Berlin-BuchDepartment of Nuclear MedicineLed by Prof. Dr. Stefan Dresel, a nuclear medicine expert with more than 20 years of experience. This department specializes in both Lutetium 177 PSMA and Lu-DOTATOC therapy, making it a key referral center for international patients with prostate cancer.
University Hospital Rechts der Isar, MunichDepartment of Nuclear Medicine<Directed by Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Weber, a leader in radiation oncology and molecular imaging with more than 250 scientific publications. The department is internationally recognized for its role in clinical trials of radionuclide therapy.
University Hospital LMU MunichDepartment of Nuclear MedicineHeaded by Prof. Dr. Peter Bartenstein, who brings over 35 years of experience and has authored more than 450 scientific works. This department is part of a Comprehensive Cancer Center, offering prostate cancer patients access not only to Lu-PSMA but also to clinical trials and research-driven care.
University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, DresdenDepartment of Nuclear MedicineDirected by Prof. Dr. Jörg Kotzerke, a respected board member of the German Society for Nuclear Medicine (DGN). The hospital is known for its leadership in developing Lu-PSMA treatment protocols and for its international patient services.

Each of these hospitals meets strict European quality standards and offers specialized prostate cancer programs for international patients. Along with this high level of care comes transparency in pricing: the cost of Lutetium 177 PSMA therapy typically ranges from €12,700 to €28,900, depending on the treatment cycle and the patient's individual needs. Treatment packages often include not only the therapy itself but also comprehensive diagnostics, hospital services, and follow-up care.

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Patient Story: John Baker's Journey with Lutetium-177 in Germany

John Baker, a patient from Colorado, USA, was diagnosed with prostate cancer five years ago. After trying heat therapy and targeted radiation without success, his cancer spread beyond the prostate. Traditional treatment options like chemotherapy were not appealing, and in the United States, Medicare would not cover Lutetium 177 PSMA therapy.

Through Booking Health, John and his wife found access to specialized clinics in Germany. The process – from travel and hospital admission to clinic coordination and interpreter support – was arranged efficiently. "Everything worked like clockwork," John recalls.

The treatment itself was simple and well tolerated. Apart from mild tiredness the day after his first infusion, he reported no significant side effects. Importantly, his results were impressive: his PSA level dropped from 3 to nearly undetectable, and scans confirmed that bone metastases had disappeared.

"I would recommend it to anyone – not just for prostate cancer but for any cancer that qualifies for Lutetium 177 PSMA therapy. It was simple, straightforward, and it worked." – John Baker

Stories like John's show how Lutetium 177 PSMA therapy can provide both effective disease control and improved quality of life, especially when supported by experienced international care providers.

When Medicare Said No: Colorado Man Finds Hope in German Cancer Therapy

PROSTATE CANCER TREATMENT IN GERMANY - Lutetium-177 PSMA | Stories from our patients

A Medical Journey: Every Step of the Way with Booking Health

Choosing the right path for cancer treatment is never easy. Patients facing advanced prostate cancer or living with the challenges of metastatic prostate cancer often feel overwhelmed by the number of therapies, consultations, and decisions. In such moments, support from an experienced and trustworthy partner can make all the difference.

For more than 12 years, Booking Health has guided international patients treated for cancer through this difficult journey. Our mission is simple: to ensure that every person receives the most effective, innovative, and personalized care available – without unnecessary stress or hidden costs.

Every patient's story is unique. That is why our specialists begin by carefully reviewing your medical reports and analyzing all available treatment options. Based on this, we design a tailored program in collaboration with leading German hospitals. Whether you require surgical intervention, modern systemic therapy, or innovative solutions such as Lutetium 177 PSMA therapy, we ensure you are connected with the right experts in prostate cancer treatment.

Booking Health takes care of more than just medical scheduling. We provide:

  • Assessment and analysis of medical reports before your trip.
  • Development of a personalized prostate cancer care program in cooperation with German specialists.
  • Selection of the most suitable clinic, ensuring access to the top Comprehensive Cancer Centers.
  • Preparation of medical documents and their translation.
  • Visa, flight, and accommodation support to make travel stress-free.
  • Interpreter services and cultural guidance, so language barriers never stand in your way.
  • Clinic coordination and on-site supervision, ensuring therapy and follow-up run smoothly.
  • 24/7 personal coordinator, available for every question or concern.
  • Transparent budgeting with fixed cost guarantees, so you never face unexpected charges.
  • Ongoing follow-up care, even after you return home.

Health is life's most precious value. Entrusting it requires confidence and compassion. At Booking Health, we combine both the reliability of medical expertise with genuine care for each patient's well-being. For men with advanced or metastatic prostate cancer – or anyone seeking the highest standards of international cancer treatment – we stand by your side from the very first consultation to your safe return home.

Contact Booking Health today to begin your journey toward personalized, world-class prostate cancer treatment with Lutetium 177 PSMA in Germany.


Cancer Treatment Abroad: Patient Experiences with Booking Health

Frequently Asked Questions of Our Patients About Lutetium‑177 PSMA Therapy for Prostate Cancer

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Lutetium 177 PSMA therapy is a modern form of radionuclide therapy for men with metastatic or advanced prostate cancer. It uses PSMA targeting molecules linked to a radioactive beta emitter, which delivers radiation directly to cancer cells. This provides tumor destruction with minimal damage to healthy tissue, making it one of the safest systemic treatments for advanced disease.

Candidates are usually men with metastatic prostate cancer who no longer respond to standard treatments, have PSMA-positive disease on PET/CT, and maintain good kidney and liver function. Even patients with bone or visceral metastases may benefit after careful clinic coordination.

The therapy is given by IV infusion. Once in the body, the drug binds to PSMA receptors on cancer cells. The attached beta emitter releases short-range radiation, ensuring effective metastasis control with minimal damage to healthy tissue. The therapy is usually repeatable, with cycles every 6-8 weeks.

Compared to chemotherapy or external radiation, Lu-177 PSMA offers:

  • PSMA targeting for precision
  • Minimal damage to healthy tissue, protecting bone marrow and organs
  • Low side effects, mainly mild fatigue or dry mouth
  • Repeatable cycles (3-6 sessions)
  • Proven effective metastasis control with survival benefits shown in major trials

Germany leads in radionuclide therapy, with top centers including:

  • University Hospital LMU Munich
  • University Hospital Rechts der Isar, Munich
  • Helios Hospital Berlin-Buch

All combine medical oncology expertise, clinic coordination, and advanced imaging for international prostate cancer patients.

Booking Health organizes every step of your treatment abroad:

  • Expert clinic coordination with leading German hospitals
  • Transparent pricing with a fixed cost guarantee
  • Visa, travel, and interpreter assistance
  • 24/7 support from a personal coordinator
  • Guidance with documents, follow-up, and aftercare

This complete service lets prostate cancer patients focus on recovery while accessing the most advanced treatment options in Germany.

Choose treatment abroad, and you will get the best results for sure!


Authors: 

This article was edited by medical experts, board-certified doctors Dr. Nadezhda Ivanisova, and Dr. Bohdan Mykhalniuk. For the treatment of the conditions referred to in the article, you must consult a doctor; the information in the article is not intended for self-medication!

Our editorial policy, which details our commitment to accuracy and transparency, is available here. Click this link to review our policies.

Source:

[1] Frontiers in Public Health. Prostate Cancer Incidence and Mortality: Global Status and Temporal Trends in 89 Countries From 2000 to 2019. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2022.811044/full

[2] National Cancer Institute. For Advanced Prostate Cancer, Radiopharmaceutical Improves Survival. https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2021/prostate-cancer-psma-radiopharmaceutical-vision

[3] Rien Ritawidya, Hendris Wongso, Nurmaya Effendi et al. Lutetium-177-Labeled Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen-617 for Molecular Imaging and Targeted Radioligand Therapy of Prostate Cancer. Adv Pharm Bull. 2023 Apr 29;13(4):701–711. doi: 10.34172/apb.2023.079. [DOI] [PMC free article]

[4] Mohammad R Alam, Shashi B Singh, Shreeya Thapaliya et al. A Review of 177Lutetium-PSMA and 225Actinium-PSMA as Emerging Theranostic Agents in Prostate Cancer. Cureus. 2022 Sep 20;14(9):e29369. doi: 10.7759/cureus.29369. [DOI] [PMC free article]

[5] Isabel Heidegger, Claudia Kesch, Alexander Kretschmer et al. Biomarkers to personalize treatment with 177Lu-PSMA-617 in men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer - a state of the art review. Ther Adv Med Oncol. 2022 Mar 5;14:17588359221081922. doi: 10.1177/17588359221081922. [DOI] [PMC free article]

[6] Raviteja Nanabala, Maroor Raghavan Ambikalmajan Pillai, Buvaneswari Gopal. Preparation of Patient Doses of [177Lu]Lu-DOTATATE and [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 with Carrier Added (CA) and No Carrier Added (NCA) 177Lu. Nucl Med Mol Imaging. 2022 Oct 7;56(6):313–322. doi: 10.1007/s13139-022-00778-y. [DOI] [PMC free article]

[7] Mohini Guleria, Jeyachitra Amirdhanayagam, Haladhar D Sarma et al. Preparation of 177Lu-PSMA-617 in Hospital Radiopharmacy: Convenient Formulation of a Clinical Dose Using a Single-Vial Freeze-Dried PSMA-617 Kit Developed In-House. Biomed Res Int. 2021 Nov 20;2021:1555712. doi: 10.1155/2021/1555712. [DOI] [PMC free article]

[8] BMC Cancer. Tolerability of Concurrent External Beam Radiotherapy and [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 for Node-Positive Prostate Cancer in Treatment Naïve Patients, Phase I Study (PROQURE-I Trial). https://bmccancer.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12885-023-10725-5

[9] O Sartor, J de Bono, KN Chi, K Fizazi et al. Lutetium-177–PSMA-617 for Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer. N Engl J Med. Author manuscript; available in PMC: 2022 Mar 16. Published in final edited form as: N Engl J Med. 2021 Jun 23;385(12):1091–1103. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2107322. [DOI] [PMC free article]

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