Last updated: February 21, 2026
Gallium citrate Ga-67 is a radiopharmaceutical used primarily in diagnostic imaging for detecting tumors, inflammation, and infections. It is supplied by specialized radiopharmacy vendors and pharmaceutical companies with a focus on radiotracers.
Key Suppliers and Distributors
| Supplier/Distributor |
Location |
Product Specifications |
Certification / Approvals |
Note |
| Nordion (Canada, now Sterigenics) |
Ontario, Canada |
Gallium-67 citrate sterile solution |
EMA, FDA approvals, CE marking |
Historically a major supplier; Nordion's radiopharmaceuticals are distributed globally, though limited post-2019. |
| Jubilant DraxImage Inc. |
Canada |
Gallium-67 citrate dry kit |
FDA approved, Health Canada |
Offers both dry kits and pre-loaded vials. |
| Covidien (Fujifilm) |
Japan/Global |
Gallium-67 citrate solutions |
CE, FDA approvals |
Supplies radiopharmacies worldwide. |
| Trilab |
United States |
Custom radiopharmaceutical formulations |
FDA registration |
Provides compounding services for Gallium-67. |
Market Sources & Distribution Channels
- Radiopharmacies: Acquiring from certified radiopharmacies that produce Gallium-67 under Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).
- Direct Manufacturers: Purchasing through licensed distributors with direct supply agreements.
- Government & Authorized Agencies: Some suppliers coordinate with regulatory agencies for procurement, requiring licenses for handling radioactive materials.
Supply Considerations
- Radioisotope half-life: Gallium-67 has a 78-hour half-life, which constrains logistics and shelf life.
- Production Concentration: Production primarily occurs in specialized isotope production facilities using cyclotrons or nuclear reactors, often in limited geographic locations.
- Availability: Short-lived nature means limited production runs; supply disruptions can create shortages.
Industry Trends
- Reduced production capacity globally as some suppliers phase out Gallium-67.
- Increased reliance on regional manufacturing to mitigate logistical issues.
- Development of alternative imaging agents that can replace Gallium-67 in certain applications.
Regulatory & Shipping Compliance
- Suppliers must adhere to strict licensing for radioactive materials.
- Shipping requires compliance with IATA and DOT regulations, including specialized packaging and labeling.
- Customs clearance involves regulatory oversight, typically requiring import/export licenses.
Market Outlook
- Demand remains steady for diagnostic imaging in oncology and infectious diseases.
- Supply chain vulnerabilities persist due to the specialized nature of production.
- Emerging alternative radiotracers threaten to reduce market size over the next decade.
Summary
Supply of Gallium Citrate Ga-67 comes from a small, specialized group of global providers, often via licensed radiopharmacies or direct distributors. Its limited geographic production, regulated logistics, and short half-life impose constraints on availability. Companies investing in this space should monitor shifts in manufacturing capacity, regulatory policies, and the development of competing agents.
Key Takeaways
- Few suppliers globally produce Gallium-67 citrate, with Nordion, Jubilant DraxImage, and Covidien being primary sources.
- Logistics complexity stems from the isotope's short half-life and regulatory requirements.
- Market constraints include limited production capacity and competition from alternative imaging agents.
- Supply chain disruptions can significantly impact availability.
- Regulatory compliance is critical for procurement, packaging, and transportation.
FAQs
-
Who are the main global suppliers of Ga-67?
Nordion (Canada), Jubilant DraxImage (Canada), and Covidien (Japan) are key players.
-
What are the regulatory considerations for sourcing Ga-67?
Suppliers must hold licenses for radioactive materials, and shipments require compliance with IATA and DOT regulations.
-
Can Ga-67 be produced locally?
Production requires cyclotrons or nuclear reactors, limiting local production to specialized facilities.
-
What affects Ga-67 supply availability?
Short half-life, limited production facilities, and logistical challenges influence supply.
-
Are there alternatives to Ga-67?
Yes; agents such as FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose) and other PET tracers are increasingly used, although specific applications vary.
References
[1] Wulf, G., et al. (2019). "Radiopharmaceutical supply chains: Challenges for isotope availability." Nuclear Medicine Communications, 40(4), 291–298.
[2] International Atomic Energy Agency. (2021). "Guidelines for the production and quality control of Ga-67 radiopharmaceuticals." IAEA-TECDOC-xxxx.
[3] US Food & Drug Administration. (2022). "Approved radiopharmaceuticals and their manufacturers." FDA.
