TAKING STRONTIUM89
Extend your pain-free possibilities
Learn more about what to expect when taking Strontium89.
A single injection of Strontium89 may get you on the road to lasting relief from painful bone mets. Your doctor will decide if it is safe for you to get a repeat injection, 90 days later, if pain returns.
Here’s what you need to know before, during, and after treatment.
Before treatment
Before receiving Strontium89, you will get a blood test to make sure your blood counts are within an acceptable range and it’s okay for you to receive your injection. Remember to confirm with your cancer care team where you’ll need to go on the day of your injection; Strontium89 can be given at your hospital’s nuclear medicine department or at your local nuclear medicine clinic.
During treatment
Your doctor will inject an IV into your vein. Strontium89 will be delivered over the course of 1 to 2 minutes.
After treatment
After receiving Strontium89, there are no restrictions regarding being in the presence of other people. However, you will need to receive a blood test once every other week after the injection to monitor your white blood cell and platelet counts. Don’t worry if you don’t feel pain relief right away; many people report relief within 7 to 20 days.
- Follow the special care instructions below to help protect your loved ones from radiation exposure.
Take special care for 2 weeks
Because Strontium89 is eliminated via bodily fluids, such as urine and feces, follow good hygiene practices to avoid radiation exposure immediately after injection and for 2 weeks thereafter.
For 2 weeks after injection, it’s important to:
Wash hands thoroughly every time you use or clean the bathroom.
Sit and flush 2x. Men and women should sit on the toilet and flush 2 times after each use. Men should avoid using urinals.
Wear gloves and gowns if cleaning up bodily waste.
If sheets and clothing become soiled with bodily fluids, wash them right away and separately from other clothes.
Wash away any blood if you cut or injure yourself, and apply a bandage.
KEEP THIS INFORMATION HANDY
Download the What to expect after treatment information sheet.
GET UPDATES
Get updates and request information about the use of Strontium89 in specific primary cancers, such as prostate, lung, and breast cancer.
