International Isotopes begins thallium production

Radiopharmaceutical manufacturer International Isotopes has begun producing thallium 201 at both its completed linear accelerator and its cyclotron facilities in Denton, TX. The firm expects that the production of thallium at both facilities will allow it to provide an ample supply of the isotope to hospitals and clinics in the U.S. Since it is situated near two airports, International Isotopes can ship isotopes with short half-lives overnight, according to Dr. Ira Lon Morgan, chairman and CEO. Thallium has a half-life of 73 hours and is used for the diagnosis of heart disease.