Sandostatin LAR Injection 20mg

Product Description

Product Name: Sandostatin LAR Injection 20mg 

Product Form: Injection

Pack Size: 1's

Manufactured By: Novartis

Used For:

1. Acromegaly:

   • To reduce growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels in patients with acromegaly, especially when surgery or radiation therapy is not feasible or effective.

2. Neuroendocrine Tumors:

   • For symptomatic treatment of carcinoid syndrome (e.g., flushing and diarrhea).
   • Management of vasoactive intestinal peptide-secreting tumors (VIPomas).

3. Severe Diarrhea and Flushing:

   • Associated with metastatic carcinoid tumors or certain cancers.

4. Bleeding Esophageal Varices:

   • Used in acute settings to reduce blood flow to varices and control bleeding in patients with liver cirrhosis.

5. Off-Label Uses:

   • Treatment of refractory diarrhea due to chemotherapy, HIV, or other conditions.
   • Management of insulinomas or glucagonomas (pancreatic tumors).

Side Effects:

1. Common Side Effects:

   • Diarrhea or constipation
   • Abdominal pain or bloating
   • Nausea
   • Headache
   • Dizziness
   • Fatigue
   • Injection site reactions (e.g., pain, redness, or swelling)

2. Serious Side Effects:

   • Gallstones (Cholelithiasis): May develop with prolonged use.
   • Hyperglycemia or Hypoglycemia: Affects blood sugar regulation.
   • Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rate): Can occur in some patients.
   • Thyroid Dysfunction: May lead to hypothyroidism over time.
   • Pancreatitis: Rare but possible.

Precautions:

1. Before Starting Octreotide:

   • Inform your doctor about:
     • Gallbladder disease or history of gallstones.
     • Diabetes or blood sugar irregularities.
     • Heart conditions, particularly bradycardia.
     • Thyroid dysfunction or other endocrine disorders.
     • Liver or kidney impairment.

2. During Treatment:

   • Regular Monitoring: Periodic ultrasound of the gallbladder, blood sugar levels, thyroid function, and liver function tests.
   • Injection Technique: Octreotide is typically administered subcutaneously (under the skin) or intravenously. Rotate injection sites to avoid irritation.
   • Adjustments in diabetes medication may be necessary due to potential effects on blood sugar.

3. Lifestyle Considerations:

   • Maintain a balanced diet to avoid complications related to gallstones or blood sugar changes.
   • Report any symptoms of gallstones (e.g., upper abdominal pain, nausea).

4. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

   • Use only if clearly needed, as there is limited data on its safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Discuss risks with your doctor.

5. Drug Interactions:

   • May interact with medications such as insulin, oral hypoglycemics, beta-blockers, or drugs metabolized by the liver.