SANDOSTATIN

Do not use Sandostatin in people with the following conditions:

• Hypersensitivity
• Gallbladder or biliary tract problems: Octreotide can cause gallstones or worsen existing gallbladder or biliary tract problems. Therefore, it is contraindicated in patients with known gallstones or biliary tract disorders.
• Hypersensitivity to other somatostatin analogs: Octreotide is a somatostatin analog, and individuals who have had a hypersensitivity reaction to other somatostatin analogs should not use octreotide.
• Uncontrolled diabetes: Octreotide can affect blood sugar levels and may interfere with diabetes management. Therefore, it is contraindicated in individuals with uncontrolled diabetes.
• Thyroid disorders: Octreotide can affect thyroid function, so it is contraindicated in individuals with known thyroid disorders, such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Octreotide should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is generally recommended to avoid the use of octreotide during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider for advice specific to individual circumstances.

It is crucial to discuss any existing medical conditions, medications, or allergies with a healthcare provider before starting octreotide or any other medication. They can evaluate the potential risks and benefits and determine the suitability of octreotide for a particular individual.

Sandostatin may have the following side effects:

• Gastrointestinal disturbances: Octreotide may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. These side effects are usually mild and transient.
• Injection site reactions: If octreotide is administered via injection, there may be localized pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. These reactions are generally temporary.
• Gallbladder and pancreatic issues: Octreotide can affect gallbladder function, leading to the formation of gallstones. It may also cause changes in pancreatic enzyme levels. These issues are more common with long-term use.
• Changes in blood sugar levels: Octreotide can affect blood sugar levels, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Monitoring blood sugar levels is important, especially in individuals with diabetes.
• Thyroid function changes: Octreotide can impact thyroid function, potentially leading to changes in thyroid hormone levels. Regular monitoring of thyroid function is important, especially in individuals with pre-existing thyroid conditions.
• Cardiovascular effects: Rarely, octreotide may cause changes in blood pressure or heart rate. It is important to monitor these parameters, especially in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.

Keep in mind that your physician has recommended this drug since he or she has known that the advantage to you is more noteworthy than the risk of adverse reactions. Many individuals utilizing this medicine don’t have serious side effects.

A serious allergy to this medication is uncommon. In any case, seek emergency medical help if you see any manifestations of a serious allergic response, including a rash, tingling or swelling particularly of the face or tongue or throat, dizziness or difficulty in breathing.

This is not a complete list of side effects. If you see other effects not recorded above, contact your physician or pharmacist.

Precautions

Take extra caution in patients with the following medical conditions:

• Pre-existing medical conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions you have, such as liver disease, kidney disease, heart problems, gastrointestinal disorders, or diabetes. Octreotide may require dose adjustments or careful monitoring in these cases.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of using octreotide with your healthcare provider. Octreotide should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks.
• Blood sugar monitoring: Octreotide can affect blood sugar levels, particularly in individuals with diabetes. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is important, and adjustments to diabetes management may be necessary.
• Gallbladder and pancreatic function: Octreotide can affect gallbladder function, potentially leading to the formation of gallstones. It may also cause changes in pancreatic enzyme levels. Regular monitoring of gallbladder and pancreatic function may be needed, especially with long-term use.
• Allergic reactions: If you have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to octreotide or any of its components, it is important to avoid using the medication and inform your healthcare provider.

Prior to taking this medicine, tell your physician or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, or if you have some other hypersensitivities. This drug may contain inert ingredients which can cause unfavorable side effects or different issues. Talk with your pharmacist for more information.

Interactions

Sandostatin may interact with the following medicines:

• Insulin and oral diabetes medications: Octreotide can affect blood sugar levels and may require adjustments in the dosage of insulin or oral diabetes medications. Close monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential to maintain proper glycemic control.
• Beta-blockers: Octreotide can lower heart rate and blood pressure. When used together with beta-blockers, which also lower heart rate and blood pressure, the combined effects may lead to excessive heart rate and blood pressure reduction. Regular monitoring is advised.
• Cyclosporine: Octreotide may decrease the blood levels of cyclosporine, a medication used to prevent organ rejection in transplant recipients. Dose adjustments of cyclosporine may be necessary when used concomitantly with octreotide.
• Bromocriptine and dopamine agonists: Octreotide may interfere with the effectiveness of bromocriptine or other dopamine agonist medications used to treat conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or certain hormonal disorders. Close monitoring and adjustment of medication doses may be needed.
• Medications that affect gastric pH: Medications that alter gastric pH, such as antacids, proton pump inhibitors, or H2 receptor antagonists, may affect the absorption of octreotide. It is advisable to separate the administration of these medications from octreotide to avoid potential interactions.
• Medications that prolong the QT interval: Octreotide may have a mild QT-prolonging effect on the heart’s electrical activity. When used together with medications that also prolong the QT interval, such as certain antiarrhythmics or some antidepressants, the risk of potentially dangerous heart rhythm disturbances may increase. Caution and monitoring are advised.

Inform your physician about the drugs you take including over-the-counter medications, prescribed drugs, supplements and vitamins.

This is not a complete list of drug interactions. Approach your physician or pharmacist for more details.

The effects of certain medications can change if you consume different medications or herbal products simultaneously. This can build your risk for side effects or may cause your drugs not to work effectively. These interactions are conceivable, yet don’t generally happen. Your physician or pharmacist can prevent or oversee interactions by changing how you utilize your prescriptions or by close checking.

While utilizing this drug, don’t start, stop, or change the dose of other medicines you are using without your physician’s advice.

If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor right away.

Available Brands:

• Sandostatin