Octreotide belongs to the class of endocrine drugs resembling somatostatin by inhibiting serotonin, gastrin, VIP and other substances. It is used to treat acromegaly, carcinoid syndrome, gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors of functional, vasoactive intestinal peptide-secreting (VIPoma).
Octreotide is administered as injections in Hong Kong. LAR formulations are to be injected into gluteal muscles. Other formulations are to be injected into the veins or under the skin, but not the LAR ones.
Acromegaly
Adult
Intramuscular injections (LAR formulation): 20 mg into gluteal muscles every 4 weeks for 3 months. Adjust dose after 3 months depending on the growth hormone level.
Subcutaneous injections (Ampule, syringe, vial): Initial dose is 50 mcg 3 times daily, increased to 300-1500 mcg daily.
Carcinoid syndrome
Adult
Intramuscular injections (LAR formulation): 20 mg into gluteal muscles every 4 weeks. Adjust dose based on body response.
Subcutaneous injections (Ampule, syringe, vial): Initial dose is 100-600 mcg in 2-4 divided doses, adjusted to 50-750 mcg daily.
Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors of functional, vasoactive intestinal peptide-secreting (VIPoma)
Adult
Intramuscular injections (LAR formulation): 20 mg into gluteal muscles every 4 weeks. Adjust dose based on body response.
Subcutaneous or intravenous injections (Ampule, syringe, vial): Initial dose is 200-300 mcg in 2-4 divided doses, adjusted to 150-450 mcg daily.
Common side effects of Octreotide include, but not limited to, hypertension, peripheral edema, bradycardia, hair loss, hypothyroidism, abdominal stress and diarrhea.
Common dosing schedule:
Octreotide is to be injected 2-4 times daily. If it is really the case that you have to self-administer, injecting at meals is more convenient.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Octreotide may interact with:
Octreotide may interact with many other medications. Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Octreotide is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Octreotide in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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