Octreotide
Octreotide (Sandostatin) is a synthetic somatostatin analog FDA-approved for acromegaly, carcinoid tumors, and VIPomas. It inhibits growth hormone and various GI hormones.
Mechanism of Action
Binds to somatostatin receptors (primarily SSTR2 and SSTR5) to inhibit GH, glucagon, insulin, and gastric secretions. Reduces blood flow to GI tract and inhibits tumor hormone secretion.
Dosage Overview
Dose Range
50 mcg – 600 mcg
Route
subcutaneous
Frequency
3x daily
Cycle Length
4–24 weeks
Reconstitution
Typical Dosage (Research)
Varies by indication. Acromegaly: 50-100mcg three times daily initially, up to 500mcg TID. LAR (long-acting): 20-30mg IM every 4 weeks.
Subcutaneous injection for immediate-release (between meals). Intramuscular for LAR depot form. Requires monitoring of gallbladder, glucose, and thyroid.
Considerations for Men & Women
Women: Somatostatin analog. May affect fertility — can suppress GnRH and gonadotropin secretion. May cause gallstones with long-term use (risk may be slightly higher in women). Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
Men: Same gallstone risk. May suppress GH, insulin, and glucagon. Long-term use can affect thyroid function in both sexes. Monitor glucose levels.
Individual responses vary. These notes reflect general trends from research literature and are not medical advice.
Quick Calculator
Quick Calculator
Concentration: 2,500 mcg/ml
Volume to inject: 0.02 ml
Syringe units (U-100): 2.0 units
Pre-filled with Octreotide defaults. Adjust values as needed.
Side Effects & Risks
GI effects (diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain), gallstones (up to 25% of long-term users), injection site reactions, and blood glucose changes.
High gallstone risk with chronic use. May cause or worsen hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. Cardiac conduction abnormalities possible.
Who Uses Octreotide
Acromegaly patients, those with neuroendocrine tumors, individuals with hormone-secreting tumors.
Similar Peptides
View All Alternatives →VIP is a 28-amino acid neuropeptide with wide-ranging effects throughout the body. It acts as a neurotransmitter, neuromodulator, and immune regulator with particular importance in gut and lung function.
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that has revolutionized weight management and diabetes treatment. FDA-approved as Ozempic (diabetes), Wegovy (weight loss), and Rybelsus (oral form), it has become one of the most prescribed peptides worldwide.
KPV is a tripeptide (Lys-Pro-Val) derived from alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It retains the potent anti-inflammatory properties of the parent hormone without the tanning or other melanocortin effects.
Lactoferricin is an antimicrobial peptide derived from lactoferrin, a protein found in milk and other secretions. It has potent antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.