Copper Cu-64
Copper Cu-64 is a radioactive copper isotope used as a diagnostic radiopharmaceutical in nuclear medicine imaging, particularly positron emission tomography (PET). Its relatively long half-life of approximately 12.7 hours and versatility in forming compounds make it useful for various imaging applications including tumor detection and cardiac studies.
Copper Cu-64 is a PET imaging radiopharmaceutical used to detect tumors and assess organ function.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 2200143
- Generic
- Copper Cu-64
- 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 PET imaging of tumors and cancer metastases, cardiac imaging to evaluate heart function, and research applications in nuclear medicine. May also be used for infection imaging and dosimetry calculations in radiotherapy planning.
As a positron-emitting radionuclide, Copper Cu-64 releases positrons that collide with electrons in tissue, producing gamma rays detected by PET scanners to create detailed three-dimensional images of metabolic activity and organ function.
Must be handled by qualified nuclear medicine professionals with appropriate radiation safety measures. Patient exposure involves ionizing radiation, and use should be justified based on clinical need. Pregnancy and breastfeeding may be contraindications. Availability is limited to specialized centers with cyclotron access.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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