Somatuline Depot is called Somatuline Autogel in Europe.
Information about Somatuline Depot (Lanreotide)
Somatuline Depot is an injectable medication containing lanreotide, a synthetic analogue of somatostatin, a natural hormone that regulates the release of various other hormones. Lanreotide works by inhibiting the secretion of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which are often elevated in certain conditions. Somatuline Depot is typically administered as a long-acting intramuscular injection, providing sustained release of lanreotide over time. It is primarily used to treat conditions related to excess hormone production, such as acromegaly and certain types of neuroendocrine tumors.
Product Highlights
- A condition caused by excessive secretion of growth hormone, usually due to a benign tumor of the pituitary gland. Symptoms may include swelling of the hands, feet, and facial features.
- Somatuline Depot is used to treat certain types of neuroendocrine tumors, such as those affecting the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, or lungs, particularly when they produce excess hormones like serotonin, causing symptoms such as flushing or diarrhea.
- This syndrome, associated with some neuroendocrine tumors, causes symptoms like flushing and diarrhea due to the overproduction of hormones.
- In certain cases, Somatuline Depot may be used to manage other hormone-related disorders as determined by a healthcare provider.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- By reducing growth hormone levels, Somatuline Depot helps to control the symptoms and complications associated with acromegaly, improving quality of life for patients.
- It helps in controlling the hormone-related symptoms of neuroendocrine tumors, such as flushing, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues, which can significantly improve patient comfort.
- The long-acting formulation requires less frequent administration (once a month), making it more convenient compared to medications that require daily doses.
- In some cases, it can help shrink or slow the growth of certain types of tumors, improving outcomes in patients with neuroendocrine tumors.
Direction of Use
- Somatuline Depot is administered as an intramuscular injection, typically once a month. The injection is usually given by a healthcare provider, but in some cases, it may be administered at home after proper training.
- The exact dosage depends on the condition being treated, and the healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dose based on the patient's specific needs. For acromegaly, the dosage typically starts at 90 mg every 4 weeks, but this may be adjusted based on response.
- The injection is usually given in the gluteal muscle (buttock), and the site may be alternated with each dose.
Safety Concerns
- Common side effects of Somatuline Depot include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, injection site reactions (pain or swelling), and headaches. Less common but more serious side effects include gallstones, changes in blood sugar levels, and heart rhythm disturbances.
- Patients receiving Somatuline Depot should have regular follow-up visits with their healthcare provider to monitor their condition, assess treatment response, and check for any potential side effects.
- Lanreotide may affect insulin secretion and blood sugar control, so patients with diabetes should have their blood sugar levels closely monitored during treatment.
- Somatuline Depot can lead to the development of gallstones, which may cause abdominal pain or other complications.
- In rare cases, Somatuline Depot may cause changes in heart rhythm, so patients with heart conditions should be monitored closely.
Avoid Somatuline Depot (Lanreotide) If
- If a patient has a known allergy to lanreotide or any of the excipients in Somatuline Depot, it should not be used.
- In patients with severe liver disease, the use of Somatuline Depot should be carefully considered, as it may require dose adjustments or additional monitoring.
- Somatuline Depot is not recommended during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, as its safety in pregnant women has not been established. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding, as lanreotide may pass into breast milk.
- Patients with a history of gallstones or gallbladder disease should avoid or use Somatuline Depot with caution, as it may exacerbate these conditions.
- While lanreotide can be used in diabetic patients, those who are insulin-dependent should be monitored closely due to potential effects on insulin and blood glucose levels.
This product requires special packaging to maintain its integrity during the shipping process. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICATION if the attached temperature indicator shows that the medication was exposed to temperatures below 2 degrees or above 8 degrees Celsius, and contact the pharmacy immediately.
