Abstract: The invention relates to a system for synthesizing radiopharmaceuticals employing one or more single-use integrated kits of materials, valves and vessels fitted to one or more stationary apparatus in the manner that the kit can be safely ejected and disposed of without manual operations. Fluidic connections on the kits are made with flexible tubing that can be inserted into the various components by hand. This, along with the use of flexible configuration rotary valves, makes it possible to configure them to carry out a variety of processes.

Abstract: An 18F isotope-labeled FDG radiopharmaceutical is stabilized against degradation in radiochemical purity due to radiolysis using selected amounts of ethyl alcohol that depend on the activity concentration of the 18F with due regard to limits set by various pharmacopoeia standards. Any of the well-know production methods for the FDG may be used and the ethyl alcohol added at several stages, preferably as part of the standard hydrolysis step. This particular radiopharmaceutical is used extensively in diagnostic imaging with a Positron Emission Tomography technique.

Abstract: An 18F isotope-labeled FDG radiopharmaceutical is stabilized against degradation in radiochemical purity due to radiolysis using selected amounts of ethyl alcohol that depend on the activity concentration of the 18F with due regard to limits set by various pharmacopoeia standards. Any of the well-know production methods for the FDG may be used and the ethyl alcohol added at several stages, preferably as part of the standard hydrolysis step. This particular radiopharmaceutical is used extensively in diagnostic imaging with a Positron Emission Tomography technique.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for producing the 18F isotope from water enriched with the 18O isotope using high energy protons from a cyclotron. The apparatus has a cyclotron target cavity that is connected to a fluid loop that contains a water reservoir, pump, and pressure regulator. Water is continuously recirculated through the target cavity to increase reliability. After irradiation long enough to produce a desired amount of 18F, water in the target loop is diverted through an 18F extraction device before being returned to the target loop. The returning water may also be purified and additional water added to the target loop as needed to permit continuous irradiation and production of 18F.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for producing the 18F isotope from water enriched with the 18O isotope using high energy protons from a cyclotron. The apparatus has a cyclotron target cavity that is connected to a fluid loop that contains a water reservoir, pump, and pressure regulator. Water is continuously recirculated through the target cavity to increase reliability. After irradiation long enough to produce a desired amount of 18F, water in the target loop is diverted through an 18F extraction device before being returned to the target loop. The returning water may also be purified and additional water added to the target loop as needed to permit continuous irradiation and production of 18F.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for producing the 18F isotope from water enriched with the 18O isotope using high energy protons from a cyclotron. The apparatus has a cyclotron target cavity that is connected to a fluid loop that contains a water reservoir, pump, and pressure regulator. Water is continuously recirculated through the target cavity to increase reliability. After irradiation long enough to produce a desired amount of 18F, water in the target loop is diverted through an 18F extraction device before being returned to the target loop. The returning water may also be purified and additional water added to the target loop as needed to permit continuous irradiation and production of 18F.

Abstract: A method is provided for preparing [.sup.18 F]2-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose with an anion exchange resin by effecting an exchange reaction between an aqueous solution of [.sup.18 F]fluoride containing an alkali metal carbonate or bicarbonate, such as sodium bicarbonate, and an anion, such as bicarbonate or carbonate, on the anion exchange resin followed by the displacement reaction with 1,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-2-O-trifluoromethanesulfonyl-.beta.-D-mannopyranose to form the resulting 2-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose tetraacetate. Improved yields of the [.sup.18 F]2-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose are obtained when the alkali bicarbonate or carbonate is used in the target water.