Preparation of Tc-99m-Sestamibi

Abstract

Tc-99m-sestamibi or hexakis (2-methoxyisobutyl isonitrile) technetium is a monovalent cation with a central Tc (I) core that is octahedrally surrounded by six identical lipophilic ligands coordinated through the isonitrile carbon. A vial of Tc-99m-sestamibi normally contains a sterile, nonpyrogenic, lyophilized mixture of 1.0 mg Tetrakis (2-methoxyisobutyl isonitrile) Copper (I), Tetrafluoroborate, Stannous Chloride Dihydrate, L-Cysteine Hydrochloride Monohydrate, Sodium citrate, Mannitol Hydrochloric acid, and Sodium hydroxide for pH-adjustment. Sestamibi is available to centers in multidose generator produced vials. The product can be stored at room temperature and has a shelf life of 2 years before preparation and only 10 h after preparation. Preparation includes a boiling step and takes about 15–20 min to complete as described later in this chapter.