What is the general storage requirement for light-sensitive radiopharmaceuticals?

Light-sensitive radiopharmaceuticals require storage in the dark to prevent degradation and loss of potency. Many radiopharmaceuticals can be chemically altered or their active components can decompose when exposed to light, which can lead to reduced effectiveness or the formation of harmful by-products. Keeping these substances shielded from light minimizes the risk of these damaging reactions, ensuring their stability and safety for patient use.

While some pharmaceuticals may be stable at room temperature, the primary concern for light-sensitive compounds is protection from illumination. Storing them in direct sunlight would greatly increase the likelihood of degradation. Similarly, refrigeration is not a universal requirement for all radiopharmaceuticals, as some may need to be stored at room temperature as long as they are kept in the dark. Thus, the best practice for light-sensitive radiopharmaceuticals is to keep them stored in a dark environment to maintain their integrity and efficacy.