Octreotide
Octreotide is a synthetic somatostatin analog that inhibits growth hormone, glucagon, and insulin secretion. It is used primarily to treat acromegaly and neuroendocrine tumors, as well as conditions involving excessive hormone production.
A potent somatostatin analog that suppresses multiple hormones, used to treat hormonal disorders and neuroendocrine tumors.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- H01CB02
- RxNorm
- 7617
- Generic
- Octreotide
- Class
- atc-h01
- Brands
- Sandostatin, Bynfezia, Mycapssa
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- injection, prefilled syringe, solution, capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
use only if benefits outweigh potential risks to fetus
regular fetal monitoring and ultrasound assessments
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second trimesteruse lowest effective dose
continue only if clearly needed for maternal condition
routine prenatal care and fetal growth monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only if benefits outweigh risks; consider discontinuation near delivery
fetal monitoring and assessment of fetal growth
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
not applicablediscontinue breastfeeding
do not breastfeed during octreotide treatment and for at least 2 weeks after discontinuation
monitor infant for adverse effects
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
children adolescentsuse only under close pediatric specialist supervision; limited safety and efficacy data
close monitoring of growth, development, and endocrine function
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
not applicableno specific dose adjustment typically required
use with caution due to potential age-related decline in organ function
monitor renal and hepatic function periodically
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno dose adjustment generally required
use with caution; monitor renal function
periodic assessment of renal function
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno specific dose adjustment generally required
use with caution; monitor liver function
periodic assessment of liver function tests
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
FDA approval year
General prescribing information
Drug class
Pharmacological classification
Common uses
Therapeutic indications
Mechanism of action
Pharmacodynamics
Treats acromegaly, carcinoid tumors, VIPomas, and other conditions involving excess hormone secretion. May also be used for gastrointestinal complications and pancreatic disorders.
Acts as a somatostatin analog, potently inhibiting growth hormone, glucagon, and insulin. Also suppresses luteinizing hormone response to gonadotropin, reducing hormone overproduction.
Administered via subcutaneous or intravenous injection. Monitor blood glucose as it can affect insulin levels. Common side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances. Use cautiously in patients with gallbladder disease or diabetes.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy