What it is
Octreotide is a man-made version of somatostatin, a natural hormone that turns down the release of many other hormones, including growth hormone and gut hormones.
It is used to control conditions where the body makes too much of a hormone, such as acromegaly and certain hormone-producing tumors.
US regulatory status
FDA-approved for acromegaly and for symptoms (such as severe diarrhea and flushing) from carcinoid tumors and VIP-secreting tumors. It comes as short-acting injections, a monthly long-acting injection, and an oral capsule (Mycapssa) for acromegaly.
What the research shows
Octreotide has decades of clinical use and trial data showing it lowers growth hormone and IGF-1 in acromegaly and reduces symptoms from neuroendocrine tumors. It is a well-established medicine for these rare conditions.
How it is given
Subcutaneous or IV injection, monthly intramuscular depot, or oral capsule
Commonly reported side effects
- Diarrhea or loose stools
- Stomach pain and gas
- Nausea
- Gallstones
- High or low blood sugar
- Slow heart rate
Questions to ask your provider
- Which form of octreotide is best for me?
- Do I need gallbladder or blood sugar checks?
- How will we know the medicine is working?