Octreotide

What it is

Octreotide (Sandostatin) is a synthetic eight-amino-acid somatostatin analog FDA-approved for several conditions including acromegaly, severe diarrhea/flushing from carcinoid tumors, severe diarrhea from VIPomas, and several other specialty indications. Available in immediate-release subcutaneous and depot intramuscular formulations.

Mechanism of action

Somatostatin receptor agonism (primarily SSTR2 and SSTR5) suppresses release of multiple hormones including GH, insulin, glucagon, gastrin, secretin, and VIP. The clinical effects depend on which hormone’s suppression is therapeutically relevant for the indication.

Approved indications

• Acromegaly (GH suppression)
• Carcinoid syndrome (symptom control)
• VIPoma (VIP suppression)
• Severe gastrointestinal hemorrhage in some contexts
• Other specialty endocrine and oncology uses

Why this is out of scope at The Tide

Specialty endocrinology and oncology medication. Acromegaly is managed by endocrinology with neurosurgery coordination. Carcinoid and VIPomas are managed by oncology. The Tide does not provide endocrinology or oncology care.

Where to learn more

Endocrinology (acromegaly) or oncology (neuroendocrine tumors).