A veterinary radioactive drug that can treat hyperthyroidism, a common endocrine disease in cats, is being developed domestically through a single injection. Compared to existing treatment methods, which lacked suitable alternatives other than long-term medication or surgery, there is growing interest among pet owners.
The Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) announced on the 30th that the hyperthyroidism treatment 'Sirociti Injection (I-131)' has become the first radioactive drug in the country to receive certification from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs under the New Excellent Technology (NET) program. The NET certification system recognizes outstanding technologies that are either newly developed or significantly improved versions of existing technologies, evaluated comprehensively for technological, economic, and managerial viability.
Sirociti is the first radioactive drug for animals in the country used to treat hyperthyroidism, which causes cardiovascular disease due to excessive secretion of thyroid hormones. Development began in 2022, and clinical trials are currently underway after receiving approval from the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency last year.
The technology that received certification this time was developed by a research team led by Dr. Jae-cheong Im from the isotope research department at the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI). This new technology allows for the preparation of sterilized injection solutions of radioactive iodine (131I) in a radiation shielding facility. The research team also established manufacturing manuals and packaging standards to maintain consistent quality and dosage.
In interim clinical results, treatment effects were confirmed in all cats that received a single dose of Sirociti, with a low incidence rate of side effects at around 5%. It has been explained that the safety and efficacy have been demonstrated to be superior compared to existing treatment methods.
Jeong Yeong-wook, director of the Quantum Science Institute at the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI), said, 'This new technology certification proves the possibility of safely and effectively applying radiation therapy technologies to pet medicine,' adding, 'We will work hard to ensure that the country's first radioactive drug for animals can be released promptly.'