Octreotide
Uses of Octreotide
Octreotide is primarily used for managing conditions related to the overproduction of certain hormones and belongs to the group of somatostatin analogues.
Additionally, it is used in managing symptoms caused by neuroendocrine tumours, reducing complications after pancreatic surgery, controlling acute bleeding from esophageal varices, and treating acromegaly, a condition characterised by excessive growth hormone production.
It is also used in treatment of Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide Tumours(VIPomas),Glucagonomas, Gastrinomas/Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, GRFomas and Insulinomas- for pre-operative control of hypoglycaemia and for maintenance therapy.
Side effects of Octreotide
Nausea
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Diarrhoea
Gallstones
How Octreotide works
Octreotide is a synthetic octapeptide analogue of somatostatin, a naturally occurring hormone.
It works by mimicking the action of somatostatin and binding to its receptors located in various tissues of the body.
Certified content
Written By
Doctor of Medicine
Reviewed By
BMS, FMC, MD Resident
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
Octreotide is available in the form of subcutaneous or intravenous injections and long-acting intramuscular depot injections (LAR).
Furthermore, this medication can be taken orally through immediate-release capsules.
Age and Dose Restrictions
Octreotide can be used by adults and is not recommended for children.
Contraindications
Octreotide is contraindicated in patients allergic to octreotide or any of its ingredients.
It should not be used in patients with a history of heart rhythm disorders, such as Long QT syndrome.
Other Medications to Avoid
Octreotide may interact with antidiabetic medications (such as insulin), immunosuppressants (like cyclosporine), beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers (like atenolol and verapamil), and dopamine agonists (such as bromocriptine).
Overdose and Missed Dose
An overdose of Octreotide may cause severe nausea, vomiting, or unexpected changes in heart rate. If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
If you miss a dose, administer it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and follow your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
For nausea or vomiting, try administering Octreotide with meals.
If you notice pain or swelling at the injection site, try rotating the injection sites.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
Octreotide may cause dizziness or tiredness in some users. If you experience these side effects, it is advisable to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you feel alert and well again.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
The safety of Octreotide for use during pregnancy and lactation is not fully established.
Caution in Other Conditions
Patients with liver cirrhosis or kidney impairment should exercise caution when administering Octreotide as dose adjustments may be necessary.
Individuals with pre-existing cardiac conduction disorders should also take extra care as Octreotide may prolong the QT interval.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
Monitor your intake of simple carbohydrates and sugars as Octreotide can alter glucose metabolism.
Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels could also be beneficial for managing any potential effects on metabolism.
Regular follow-ups with your doctor and routine ultrasound monitoring of gallbladder health are advised considering that gallstones are a common side effect of Octreotide.
Frequently asked questions
Is Octreotide a steroid?
No, Octreotide is not a steroid. It is a synthetic analogue of somatostatin, a naturally occurring hormone in the body.
Does Octreotide have any effect on sleep?
Octreotide can potentially affect sleep, causing insomnia or disrupted sleep in some patients as a side effect.
Will Octreotide affect fertility?
Yes, Octreotide can potentially affect fertility by altering hormone levels, particularly in women, which may impact ovulation and menstrual cycles.
Is it safe to administer Octreotide daily?
The safety of daily use of Octreotide depends on the medical condition and the patient's health status. Always follow your doctor's instructions for using this medication.
How much time does Octreotide take to show its effect?
The onset of action of Octreotide varies depending on the formulation used. Subcutaneous injections start working within 30 minutes, while long-acting injections reach steady-state levels in 2-4 weeks.
What is the best time to administer Octreotide?
The best time to administer Octreotide depends on the specific medical condition and the doctor's instructions.
Could administering Octreotide lead to dependency or withdrawal symptoms?
Octreotide is not known to cause dependence or withdrawal symptoms. However, do not stop using it without consulting your doctor as it might lead to the recurrence of the symptoms that were being managed by this medicine.
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