In the context of radiopharmaceutical purity, what does the term "impurity" refer to?

In the context of radiopharmaceutical purity, "impurity" specifically refers to unwanted chemical components. Radiopharmaceuticals must have a high degree of purity to ensure that the medications are safe and effective for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Impurities can impact the efficacy of the radiopharmaceutical or lead to adverse reactions in patients.

Impurities may include any substances that are not the intended active ingredient, which could ultimately affect the radiopharmaceutical's performance and safety profile.

While non-radioactive particles, unstable isotopes, or low-energy photons may be relevant in discussions of radiopharmaceuticals or radioactivity, they do not encapsulate the broader definition of impurity in this context. The focus on "unwanted chemical components" emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity and quality of the radiopharmaceuticals used in medical imaging and treatments.