Novartis is strengthening its radiotherapy manufacturing capabilities with a $200 million investment in new and existing infrastructure. The company is constructing its third radioligand therapy manufacturing site in Carlsbad, California, to support patient treatment on the West Coast, complementing facilities in New Jersey and Indiana. Additionally, the Indianapolis site is undergoing expansion to include a new plant for producing radioactive isotopes, the core component in radiopharmaceuticals. This marks Novartis’ first in-house isotope production facility in the U.S., which will help address the ongoing global shortage of these vital materials.
The expansions come as Novartis continues to focus on radioligand therapies, following the success of its neuroendocrine tumor drug Lutathera and prostate cancer treatment Pluvicto. Novartis’ radioligand production capacity is set at 250,000 doses annually, and the company operates additional radiotherapy facilities in Europe and Asia. With the new U.S. investments, Novartis aims to ensure the steady supply of complex treatments to a growing patient base. Both facilities are expected to be operational after receiving qualifications and regulatory approvals by 2026, with room for further expansion.
The global shortage of medical isotopes, exacerbated by supply chain disruptions and geopolitical factors, has impacted clinical trials and pharmaceutical production. Novartis’ move to in-house isotope production is a strategic response to this issue, ensuring long-term availability. The company is also exploring new isotopes and radiotherapies through acquisitions, such as Mariana Oncology, and partnerships like its $3 billion collaboration with PeptiDream.
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