The University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy in Oklahoma City is constructing a $16 million cyclotron facility to expand in-state access to radiopharmaceuticals used in cancer treatment and diagnostic imaging.
Currently, the nearest cyclotron is located in Dallas, forcing Oklahoma providers to ship time-sensitive radioactive compounds across state lines, according to a March 5 report by KOCO 5. OU officials said the new facility will improve speed, reduce costs and minimize waste by enabling same-day local production.
The machine will support both patient care and research efforts. OU Health leaders said the cyclotron will allow researchers to test new radiopharmaceutical agents in real time, accelerating development and clinical translation.
Fewer than 1,500 cyclotrons exist worldwide. Melissa Medina, PharmD, dean of the University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, said the facility will also reduce geographic health disparities across the state. The project is expected to be completed by 2027.
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