Pluvicto is a targeted treatment for metastatic prostate cancer. We offer Pluvicto in Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet, and Conway, SC as part of an advanced prostate cancer treatment plan.
Prostate cancer can spread to the lymph nodes or bones. Sometimes the cancer keeps growing even when testosterone is very low. This stage is called metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC).
At this stage, more advanced treatment options are needed. Pluvicto is one therapy used for certain men with mCRPC.
What Is Pluvicto?
Pluvicto is the brand name for lutetium Lu 177 vipivotide tetraxetan. It belongs to a category of treatment known as radioligand therapy. This treatment combines two parts:
- A targeting molecule that seeks out a specific protein on prostate cancer cells
- A radioactive particle that delivers radiation once it attaches to the cell
The protein it targets is called PSMA, which stands for prostate-specific membrane antigen. PSMA is found in high amounts on the surface of most advanced prostate cancer cells.
Pluvicto is given through an IV line and travels through the bloodstream. It attaches to PSMA-positive cancer cells and releases radiation that damages them. This helps target cancer cells while limiting exposure to healthy tissue.
Who Is a Candidate for Pluvicto?
Pluvicto treats men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). The cancer must test positive for PSMA. A PSMA PET scan confirms whether the cancer is PSMA-positive. Without PSMA expression, Pluvicto isn’t likely to work.
Most men who receive Pluvicto have already had certain hormone therapies. Some may have had chemotherapy, while others may be able to delay it.
Your care team will review your lab work, kidney function, imaging, and overall health before starting treatment.
What Does Pluvicto Treatment Look Like?
Pluvicto is given through an IV line, allowing the medication to enter the bloodstream directly. Treatments are typically scheduled once every six weeks. Most men receive a series of up to six cycles, depending on how the cancer responds and how the body tolerates therapy. The infusion itself is relatively brief, and you are usually able to return home the same day after a short period of monitoring.
Because the drug contains radioactive material, you’ll receive safety instructions. For a few days after treatment, you may need to limit close contact with children and pregnant women.
Drink plenty of fluids and urinate often. This helps clear the remaining radioactivity from your body and protect your kidneys.
How Effective Is Pluvicto?
Studies show that Pluvicto can help men live longer and slow the growth of advanced prostate cancer. It may also reduce problems related to bone metastases.
It isn’t a cure, but it can slow the disease. Some men see their PSA levels stabilize or their scans improve. Others may notice symptom relief, such as less bone pain.
What Are the Side Effects of Pluvicto?
Common side effects include:
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Decreased appetite
- Constipation
- Weight loss
The therapy can lower red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, too. This may increase the risk of:
- Anemia
- Infection
- Bleeding
For this reason, blood tests are done regularly. Kidney function is also monitored closely, as the kidneys help clear the radioactive material.
It is important to report symptoms such as:
- Unusual fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Easy bruising
- Fever
- Chills
- Reduced urination
Reporting symptoms early allows your care team to adjust treatment if needed.
Pluvicto Treatment in Myrtle Beach
Pluvicto offers a targeted option for men with advanced, PSMA-positive prostate cancer. If you are exploring Pluvicto in Myrtle Beach, our team at the Atlantic Coast Regional Cancer Center can help determine whether this treatment may be right for you.
Schedule a consultation to review your options.
Pluvicto FAQs
1. How long does it take to know if Pluvicto is working?
Your doctors will track your progress using PSA levels, scans, and symptom changes. Some men improve after a few treatment cycles. Your care team will keep checking your progress.
2. Will I still need hormone therapy while on Pluvicto?
Yes. Most men continue hormone therapy to keep testosterone levels low during treatment.
3. Is Pluvicto a cure for advanced prostate cancer?
No. Pluvicto isn’t a cure. It’s designed to slow the cancer and help men live longer, even after other treatments have stopped working.
