Choline C-11
Choline C-11 is a positron emission tomography (PET) radiotracer used primarily to detect and evaluate prostate cancer, particularly in patients with rising prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels following initial treatment. The medication works by highlighting areas of increased cellular proliferation and lipid metabolism characteristic of malignant tissue.
Choline C-11 is a PET imaging agent used to detect and monitor prostate cancer recurrence.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1425419
- Generic
- Choline C-11
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Primarily used for imaging of prostate cancer, including detection of recurrent disease in patients with rising PSA levels after treatment, staging of known prostate cancer, and evaluation of other malignancies with elevated choline metabolism such as certain brain tumors.
Choline C-11 is a radiolabeled form of choline that serves as a marker for cellular membrane synthesis and phospholipid metabolism. Cancer cells typically demonstrate increased choline uptake and metabolism, allowing the radiotracer to accumulate in malignant tissue where it can be detected by PET imaging.
Administered via intravenous injection immediately before PET imaging due to the short ~20 minute half-life of Carbon-11. Should only be used in facilities equipped for radiopharmaceutical handling. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any allergies or pregnancy status before administration.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy