Sandostatin LAR (Octreotide)

Sandostatin LAR is manufactured in Austria and shipped by courier from our pharmacy in India.

Information about Sandostatin LAR (Octreotide)

Sandostatin LAR (Long-Acting Release) is a medication that contains octreotide, a synthetic analogue of the naturally occurring hormone somatostatin. Octreotide functions by inhibiting the release of several hormones and substances in the body, including growth hormone, insulin, and glucagon. Sandostatin LAR is a long-acting formulation that is administered as an injection to treat various conditions that involve hormone overproduction, such as acromegaly and certain types of tumors. It is designed to provide sustained release over a period of time, typically administered once every 4 weeks.

Product Highlights

• Sandostatin LAR is primarily used to treat acromegaly, a condition caused by excessive secretion of growth hormone, often due to a pituitary tumor. It helps normalize growth hormone levels and alleviate symptoms like enlarged hands, feet, and facial features.
• It is used to manage symptoms of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), such as carcinoid syndrome, which can cause flushing, diarrhea, and wheezing.
• Sandostatin LAR is also used to treat VIPomas, a type of pancreatic tumor that causes excessive secretion of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), leading to severe diarrhea and dehydration.
• It may be used off-label for other hormone-secreting tumors or conditions as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Key Ingredient

• Octreotide

Key Benefits

• Sandostatin LAR effectively lowers excess growth hormone in conditions like acromegaly and other hormone-secreting tumors.
• By managing symptoms such as flushing, diarrhea, and excessive sweating associated with neuroendocrine tumors, Sandostatin LAR significantly improves the quality of life in affected individuals.
• The extended-release formulation provides consistent therapeutic effects with only one injection required per month, reducing the burden of frequent dosing.
• In some cases, Sandostatin LAR may help to control the growth of certain tumors and reduce tumor-related symptoms.

Direction of Use

• Sandostatin LAR is administered as an intramuscular (IM) injection, usually in the buttock.
• The typical dose is given once every 4 weeks, but the exact dosage and schedule may be adjusted based on the patient's condition and response to the medication.
• Sandostatin LAR comes as a powder that must be mixed with a diluent before administration. A healthcare professional should be the one to perform this. 
• It is important to follow the prescribed injection schedule to achieve the best results. Missed doses should be reported to the healthcare provider for proper guidance.

Safety Concerns

• Pain, swelling, or irritation at the injection site is common but generally resolves over time.
• Some patients may experience nausea, abdominal pain, bloating, or diarrhea as side effects.
• Octreotide can affect insulin and glucagon secretion, potentially leading to changes in blood sugar levels, including hypo- or hyperglycemia.
• Prolonged use of Sandostatin LAR can increase the risk of developing gallstones due to its effects on bile secretion.
• Slowing of the heart rate can occur, especially in patients with pre-existing heart conditions, so caution is needed in these individuals.
• Regular monitoring of thyroid function is recommended, as Sandostatin LAR may impact thyroid hormone levels.
• Rarely, patients may experience pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), which requires immediate medical attention.

Avoid Sandostatin LAR (Octreotide) If

• If you are allergic to octreotide or any of the ingredients in the medication, you should avoid using Sandostatin LAR. 
• Patients with severe liver dysfunction or cirrhosis should avoid Sandostatin LAR or use it with caution under close medical supervision.
• If you have active gallbladder disease or a history of gallstones, you should discuss potential risks with your healthcare provider.
• Those with severe heart issues, especially those prone to bradycardia (slow heart rate), should avoid Sandostatin LAR unless closely monitored by a doctor.
• If you have uncontrolled diabetes or significant blood sugar issues, you should be cautious, as Sandostatin LAR can affect insulin and glucose metabolism.
• Sandostatin LAR should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if the benefits outweigh the potential risks, and only under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

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.