Radiopharmaceuticals are a class of drugs that contain radioactive isotopes and are used in medicine for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. They are also known as radiotracers, radiopharmaceutical agents or radioligands.

Radiopharmaceuticals are used in medical imaging to help doctors diagnose and track the progression of diseases and conditions in the body. They can also be used in cancer treatment to help destroy cancer cells.

The radioactive isotopes in radiopharmaceuticals emit gamma rays, which can be detected by medical imaging equipment such as PET or SPECT scanners. These machines create images of the body that show where the radiopharmaceuticals have been absorbed, allowing doctors to identify any abnormalities or diseases.

Radiopharmaceuticals are typically injected into the body via a vein, but they can also be swallowed or inhaled. They are usually safe to use and have few side effects, but as with any medical procedure, there is always a risk of complications.

Overall, radiopharmaceuticals are an important tool in modern healthcare, allowing doctors to diagnose and treat diseases with greater precision and accuracy.