Sandostatin
Sandostatin Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Sandostatin is a brand name. Its generic name is Octreotide.
Sandostatin Introduction
Sandostatin is a synthetic, octapeptide analogue of natural somatostatin. It is used to treat acromegaly, carcinoid syndrome, profuse watery diarrhea due to vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) secreting tumors, and other conditions. It acts as a somatostatin receptor agonist, and is administered by subcutaneous or intramuscular injection.Uses for Sandostatin
Sandostatin is used for the treatment of acromegaly, carcinoid syndrome, profuse watery diarrhea due to vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) secreting tumors, and other conditions. It has also been used to reduce portal and mesenteric hypertension in patients with cirrhosis of the liver and to relieve symptoms of gastroparesis and esophageal reflux.Mechanism of Action
Sandostatin is a synthetic, octapeptide analogue of natural somatostatin. It binds to receptors for somatostatin (somatostatin receptors) in tissues and cells, and activates them, leading to the inhibition of somatostatin-related processes such as cell growth, hormone secretion, and cell-to-cell communication.How Long Does it Take to Work?
The effects of octreotide usually begin within a few hours of the first dose, with maximal effects occurring by four weeks. The duration of effect can vary from person to person, but generally lasts 24-48 hours.Absorption
The absorption of octreotide depends on storage temperature, dose, volume, injection site, and other factors. The average estimated bioavailability of octreotide is 56%. Peak plasma concentrations are typically achieved within 1-2 hours of subcutaneous injection.Route of Elimination
Sandostatin is eliminated primarily by biliary and intestinal excretion. It is metabolized by the liver, with a small amount also excreted in the urine.Dosage
For the subcutaneous treatment of acromegaly, the recommended initial dose is 20 mg every eight hours. This dose may be increased after four weeks with appropriate clinical and laboratory monitoring. In the treatment of carcinoid tumor, the recommended initial dose is 10 mg every eight hours, with subsequent dose adjustment to achieve adequate symptom control.Administration
Sandostatin may be administered by intramuscular or subcutaneous injection. Injection should be made into a fatty layer in an area with loose skin and not within an inch of the navel. Injection sites should be rotated and not used more than once a month to reduce likelihood of injection site reactions.Side Effects
Common side effects of octreotide include abdominal cramps, nausea, diarrhea, flatulence, headache, tiredness, dizziness, rash, and local injection site reactions. More severe side effects such as bradycardia, arrhythmia, and severe cholelithiasis may occur, and should be reported to a health care provider immediately.Toxicity
Sandostatin is generally well tolerated with few side effects. Overdose with octreotide can cause severe bradycardia, asystole, and arrhythmias, and can occur inadvertently with doses as low as 12 mg. Overdose can be treated with appropriate measures, such as intravenous fluids, vasopressin, glucagon, or atropine.Precautions
Sandostatin should be used with caution in patients with a history of cholelithiasis or gallstones, in patients receiving concomitant medications that lower gastric pH, and in patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding.Interaction
Sandostatin may interact with a number of other medications, and should not be used concomitantly with certain medications such as antifungals, antibiotics, anticoagulants, and insulin.Disease Interaction
Sandostatin may interact with a variety of diseases, including diabetes mellitus, cardiac arrhythmias, and thyroid disorders.Drug Interaction
Sandostatin may interact with certain drugs, including ketoconazole, itraconazole, amiodarone, warfarin, insulin, and others.Food Interactions
Sandostatin should not be taken within two hours before or after a meal.Pregnancy Use
Sandostatin should be used with caution in pregnant women, and it has been assigned an FDA pregnancy risk category C.Lactation Use
It is not known if octreotide is excreted in breast milk.Acute Overdose
Sandostatin overdose can cause bradycardia, asystole, and arrhythmia. Treatment is supportive, and may include intravenous fluids, vasopressin, glucagon, or atropine.Contraindications
Sandostatin is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to octreotide or any component of the formulation. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe bradycardia or severe arrhythmia, or in those with a history of cholelithiasis or gallstones.Use Direction
Sandostatin should be used as directed by your physician.Storage Condition
Sandostatin should be stored in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F).Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of octreotide is approximately 0.55 L/kg.Half Life
The half-life of octreotide is approximately 2.5 hours.Clearance
The clearance of octreotide is approximately 0.265 L/hr/kg.Here you find in details version of Sandostatin
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Sandostatin
What is Sandostatin?
Sandostatin is a man-made hormonal medication known as a long-acting somatostatin analogue. It is used to treat various medical conditions, such as diarrhea, flushing related to certain types of tumors, and acromegaly.
What conditions is Sandostatin used to treat?
Sandostatin is used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including diarrhea, flushing related to certain types of tumors, acromegaly, and Pheochromocytoma. It can also help prevent symptoms caused by certain types of tumors, such as gastrinomas.
How does Sandostatin work?
Sandostatin works by blocking the release of hormones from the glandular cells. It prevents cells from releasing hormones that act on other cells, such as gastrin, which stimulate acid production in the stomach. This helps to reduce symptoms associated with these medical conditions.
What forms does Sandostatin come in?
Sandostatin is available in injectable, extended-release, and intranasal forms. It is typically taken as an injection under the skin.
How long does it take for Sandostatin to work?
Sandostatin starts to work within one hour after injection. Its effects last up to six months. The duration of effect may vary depending on the individual and the dose.
What are the side effects of Sandostatin?
Common side effects of Sandostatin include headaches, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, and fatigue. Severe side effects, such as anemia, pancreatitis, and gallstones, may also occur. More serious side effects or allergic reactions should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.
What is the dosage of Sandostatin?
The dosage of Sandostatin depends on the condition being treated and the response to treatment. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions when taking Sandostatin. If you suspect that the medication is not working as expected, contact your healthcare provider for advice.
When should I take Sandostatin?
Sandostatin is usually taken once or twice daily, according to your doctor's instructions. It is important to take the medication at the same time each day.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Sandostatin?
If you miss a dose of Sandostatin, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and follow your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Can I take Sandostatin with other medications?
Some medications may interact with Sandostatin, increasing the risk of side effects. Before taking Sandostatin, it is important to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking to make sure that there will be no interactions. If you are taking any other medications, check with your doctor to make sure it is safe to take them with Sandostatin.
Is Sandostatin safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?
Sandostatin has not been studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your healthcare provider before taking Sandostatin.
What are the most common octreotide side effects?
The most common side effects of octreotide are nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, headache, and fatigue. Other, more serious side effects of octreotide may include gallstones, deep vein thrombosis, and pancreatitis.
What should I do if I experience side effects from taking octreotide?
If you experience any side effects from taking octreotide, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, headache, or fatigue, contact your healthcare provider. If you experience any more serious side effects, such as gallstones, deep vein thrombosis, or pancreatitis, seek medical attention immediately.
How long can I take octreotide for?
Sandostatin can be taken for as long as your doctor prescribes it. Your doctor may recommend a different dosage or duration of treatment based on your individual response to the medication.
What happens if I take an overdose of octreotide?
If you take an overdose of octreotide, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
Is octreotide a controlled substance?
No, octreotide is not a controlled substance.
What happens if I stop taking octreotide?
If you stop taking octreotide, the effects of the medication may start to wear off. If your symptoms return or get worse, contact your healthcare provider. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions when taking octreotide.
Is there any food or drink I should avoid while taking octreotide?
It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol while taking octreotide, as it may increase the risk of side effects. You should also avoid drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit or grapefruit-containing products, as they may interact with octreotide.
Can I drink alcohol while taking octreotide?
It is generally recommended to avoid drinking alcohol while taking octreotide, as it may increase the risk of side effects.
Can I take other medications while taking octreotide?
Some medications may interact with octreotide, so it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking. Check with your healthcare provider before taking any other medications while taking octreotide.
Can octreotide be used to treat cancer?
Sandostatin is not typically used to treat cancer, but it may be used to treat some symptoms associated with certain types of cancer, such as diarrhea and flushing.
Can octreotide cause weight gain?
Weight gain is not a common side effect of octreotide, but it has been reported in some cases. If you experience any weight gain while taking octreotide, contact your healthcare provider.
What are the possible long-term side effects of octreotide?
Long-term use of Sandostatin may cause a decrease in the body’s natural production of hormones, leading to hormonal imbalances. In addition, long-term use may be associated with the development of gallstones, deep vein thrombosis, and pancreatitis. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of long-term use of Sandostatin with your healthcare provider.
Can I donate blood while taking octreotide?
Yes, you can donate blood while taking octreotide. However, you should always inform the medical provider who is collecting your blood about any medications that you are taking.
Can I take over-the-counter medications while taking octreotide?
Some over-the-counter medications may interact with octreotide, so it is important to check with your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications while taking octreotide.
Can I use octreotide to lose weight?
No, octreotide is not typically used for weight loss. In some cases, it may cause weight gain, so it should not be used for this purpose.
Does octreotide have any interactions with other medications?
Yes, octreotide may interact with other medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, before taking octreotide. Your doctor can inform you of any potential interactions.
Is octreotide habit-forming?
No, octreotide is not habit-forming.
Does octreotide have any interactions with grapefruit or grapefruit juice?
Yes, it is generally recommended to avoid drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit or grapefruit-containing products while taking octreotide, as they may interact with the medication.
What should I do if I forget to take my dose of octreotide?
If you forget to take your dose of octreotide, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and follow your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Are there any herbs or supplements I should avoid while taking octreotide?
Yes, there may be certain herbs and supplements that interact with octreotide. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplements or herbs while taking octreotide.