What is the shelf life of most 99mTc labeled radiopharmaceuticals?

The shelf life of most 99mTc labeled radiopharmaceuticals is typically in the range of 6 to 8 hours. This timeframe is dictated by the physical half-life of Technetium-99m, which is approximately 6 hours. After this period, the radioactivity of the compound diminishes significantly, affecting its efficacy and safety for diagnostic purposes. Therefore, radiopharmaceuticals are often prepared to be used within this window to ensure optimal imaging results.

Additionally, the rapid decay means that these agents are generally used shortly after preparation. While some may hold a slightly different shelf life based on formulation specifics, the standard generally aligns with the 6 to 8-hour range, making this the most accurate choice regarding their usability in clinical settings.