Singapore: Lantheus Medical Imaging, a global leader in developing, manufacturing and distributing innovative diagnostic imaging agents, has entered into a new agreement with Fujifilm RI Pharma (FRI) to license and distribute Cardiolite and Neurolite in Japan. While Cardiolite is a kit for the preparation of Technetium Tc99m Sestamibi for injection, Neurolite is a kit for the preparation of Technetium Tc99m Bicisate for injection.

Under the terms of the new 10-year agreement, which is effective January 1, 2013, and is in continuation with an earlier 10-year agreement with FRI, Lantheus will continue to supply FRI with Cardiolite and Neurolite in finished form as well as provide the raw materials to manufacture and sell the products in unit dose form. Cardiolite and Neurolite are technetium-based radiopharmaceutical imaging agents used in single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT).

"We are pleased to continue our long-term collaborative relationship with FRI, which we've successfully developed over the past 10 years," said Mr Don Kiepert, president and chief executive officer, Lantheus Medical Imaging. "Japan represents one-of-the-largest markets for imaging agents worldwide. As such, we share a joint commitment with FRI to provide proven, reliable medical imaging technologies to healthcare providers and patients. This commitment includes ensuring continued access to Cardiolite and Neurolite for SPECT imaging."

"Lantheus is the ideal partner for FRI in the Japanese diagnostic imaging market as we have a shared view of the clinical value and benefits of radiopharmaceuticals in the diagnosis of disease," said Mr Yoshiro Kumano, president and chief executive officer, FRI. "Our customers are our top priority, and we will continue to meet their needs by offering Cardiolite and Neurolite for use in cardiovascular and brain imaging, respectively."