Octreotide
Also known as: Sandostatin, Octreotide LAR
Key Facts: Octreotide
- Category
- Hormonal
- FDA Status
- FDA Approved
- Clinical Status
- FDA Approved - Multiple indications
- Administration
- Subcutaneous or intramuscular depot
- Typical Dose
- 100-500 mcg SC 2-3x daily or LAR monthly
- Frequency
- 2-3x daily (SC) or monthly (LAR)
- Evidence Level
- FDA Approved
- Duration
- Long-term / chronic use
What to Expect
A synthetic somatostatin analog that inhibits multiple hormones. Used for acromegaly, carcinoid tumors, and various GI conditions.
Mechanism of Action
Octreotide binds to somatostatin receptors (primarily SST2 and SST5), inhibiting release of GH, glucagon, insulin, and gut hormones. Reduces GI motility and secretions. Has antitumor effects on neuroendocrine tumors.
Research Summary
FDA approved since 1988 with extensive clinical experience. First-line medical therapy for acromegaly. Effective for symptom control in carcinoid syndrome and VIPomas. Long-acting monthly formulation widely used.
Dosing Information
Typical Dosingⓘ
Community experience
100-500 mcg SC 2-3x daily or LAR monthly
50-1500 mcg daily (SC)
2-3x daily (SC) or monthly (LAR)
Somatostatin analog. Multiple indications including acromegaly and carcinoid tumors.
Research Dosingⓘ
Scientific studies
FDA-approved dosing
Doses from Studies
50-200 mcg SC 3x daily (immediate)
20-40 mg IM monthly (LAR)
Duration
Long-term / chronic use
Administration
Subcutaneous or intramuscular depot
Timing & Administration
Best Time to Take
Morning or as directed
Follow recommended protocol
Food Recommendation
With or without food
Why This Timing?
Timing may vary based on individual response and goals. Consistency is generally more important than specific timing.
Possible Side Effects
Not everyone experiences these effects. Individual responses vary based on dosage, duration, and personal factors.
- ●Nausea
- ●Diarrhea
- ●Abdominal pain
- ●Gallstones (52-63% long-term)
- ●Bradycardia
- ●Hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia
- ●Hypothyroidism
- ●Pancreatitis
- ●FDA approved (Sandostatin)
References
Related Peptides
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HormonalLanreotide
FDAA long-acting somatostatin analog similar to octreotide. FDA approved for acromegaly and gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.
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Educational Information Only
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers before making any decisions about peptides or other substances. The protocols listed reflect doses observed in research studies, not recommendations.