What it does
Octreotide is a medication used to treat certain hormone-related conditions.
Commonly used for: Acromegaly, Carcinoid syndrome, VIPoma
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 20:31:31 · updated 2026-07-26 11:22:12
About this medicine
Octreotide is a medication used to treat certain hormone-related conditions.
What it treats
- Acromegaly
- Carcinoid syndrome
- VIPoma
How it works
Octreotide works by mimicking a natural hormone that helps to regulate various functions in the body, particularly the release of other hormones.
Who it's for
This medication is for adults and children with specific hormone disorders.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: octreotid
Octreotide is a synthetic analogue of somatostatin, a peptide hormone that inhibits the secretion of various other hormones and substances in the body. It is primarily used in the management of acromegaly, certain types of neuroendocrine tumors, and to control symptoms associated with vasoactive intestinal peptide secreting tumors (VIPomas). It acts by mimicking the action of somatostatin and is administered via subcutaneous or intravenous routes.
Indications
- Acromegaly
- Neuroendocrine tumors
- VIPomas
- Symptomatic treatment of carcinoid syndrome
- Prevention of complications after pancreatic surgery
Dosage
Children: Dosing in children should be determined on an individual basis by a specialist, and it is important to refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing guidelines.
Adults: The initial dose for acromegaly is typically 50 micrograms subcutaneously three times daily, which may be adjusted based on response and tolerability. For other indications, dosing may vary and should be guided by clinical judgment and BNF recommendations.
Mechanism of action
Octreotide exerts its effects by binding to somatostatin receptors, primarily subtype 2 (SSTR2), located in various tissues. This binding inhibits the secretion of growth hormone, insulin, glucagon, and other hormones. Additionally, octreotide reduces gastrointestinal motility and decreases splanchnic blood flow, which can help manage conditions associated with excessive hormone secretion.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of octreotide include the suppression of growth hormone release, inhibition of insulin and glucagon secretion, and a reduction in gastrointestinal secretions and motility. These effects help in treating conditions characterized by hormone overproduction and provide symptomatic relief in certain gastrointestinal disorders.
Pharmacokinetics
Octreotide has a half-life of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. It is primarily metabolized by the liver and excreted in urine. The bioavailability of subcutaneously administered octreotide is about 60% and is affected by the site of injection. Steady-state concentrations are typically achieved within 24 hours of administration.
Adverse effects
- Gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- Gallbladder abnormalities
- Hyperglycemia
Interactions
- octreotide+oral ciclosporin: Unknown (decreases absorption)
- octreotide+telotristat ethyl: Unknown (decreases exposure)
Precautions
- Caution in patients with diabetes mellitus due to potential hyperglycemia.
- Monitor thyroid function as octreotide can affect thyroid hormone levels.
- Use with caution in patients with gallbladder disease.
Pregnancy
Octreotide is classified as pregnancy category B. Animal studies have not shown any adverse effects, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
Breast-feeding
Octreotide is excreted in breast milk. Caution is advised when administering to nursing mothers.
Storage
Store in a refrigerator (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze. Protect from light.
Formulations
- Injectable solution (subcutaneous or intramuscular)
- Long-acting release formulation
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.