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Octreotide Coupon - Octreotide 1ml of 100mcg/ml vial

octreotide

Generic Sandostatin
Used for Neuroendocrine Tumor, Acromegaly
Used for Neuroendocrine Tumor, Acromegaly

Octreotide acetate, also known by its brand name Sandostatin, is a short-acting somatostatin analog injection used to treat acromegaly, a condition where your body makes too much growth hormone. It's also used to manage symptoms like diarrhea and flushing caused by certain tumors. It's typically injected under the skin 2 to 4 times per day. Octreotide injection is available in both brand-name and generic forms. Some common side effects include stomach pain, nausea, and pain at the injection site.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on October 17, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostAlternativesImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Octreotide?

What is Octreotide used for?

How Octreotide works

Octreotide is a somatostatin analog. This means it acts just like somatostatin, a hormone made by your body that blocks the release of many other hormones.

This medication treats acromegaly, a condition where your body makes too much growth hormone (GH), by blocking your body from releasing too much GH.

It treats flushing and diarrhea caused by carcinoid tumors and diarrhea linked to VIPomas by blocking or lowering certain activities in your stomach, such as blood flow and gut movement.

Are you looking for information on Mycapssa (octreotide) capsules or long-acting Sandostatin LAR depot (octreotide) injection instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsSandostatin
Drug ClassSomatostatin analog
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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What are the side effects of Octreotide?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Gallbladder problems (63%)
  • Diarrhea (34-61%)
  • Nausea (34-61%)
  • Stomach discomfort (34-61%)
  • Low heart rate (25%)
  • High blood sugar (16%)
  • Low thyroid hormone (12%)

Other Side Effects

  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Pain at injection site
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Low blood sugar

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Dangerously low blood sugar: feeling faint, shaking, sweating, dizziness, fast heartbeat, nervousness, anxious, confused, irritable, feeling very hungry
  • Dangerously high blood sugar: frequently thirsty, needing to urinate often, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, having fruity breath, having dry mouth
  • Heart rhythm problems: chest pounding, fluttering in the chest, difficulty breathing, chest pain, feeling faint or lightheaded
  • Swelling of the gallbladder or pancreas: sudden pain in upper right portion of your stomach area, back pain between your shoulder blades, nausea, vomiting, fever, swelling in the belly, fast heartbeat, difficulty breathing
  • Serious allergic reaction: hives, swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing, rash, itching

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Constipation

depressed mood

diarrhea

dizziness

dry skin and hair

fainting

fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat

feeling cold

hair loss

hoarseness or husky voice

loss of appetite

muscle cramps and stiffness

nausea

severe stomach pain with nausea and vomiting

stomach pain

unusual tiredness or weakness

vomiting

weight gain

Less common

Anxiety

bladder pain

bloody or cloudy urine

blurred vision

chills

cold sweats

collection of blood under the skin

confusion

cool, pale skin

deep, dark purple bruise

difficult, burning, or painful urination

dry mouth

flushed, dry skin

frequent urge to urinate

fruit-like breath odor

headache

increased hunger

increased thirst

increased urination

itching, pain, redness, or swelling

loss of consciousness

lower back or side pain

nervousness

nightmares

seizures

shakiness

slurred speech

sweating

swelling

trouble breathing

unexplained weight loss

Rare

Black, tarry stools

bleeding gums

blood in vomit

changes in skin color, pain, tenderness, swelling of the foot or leg

chest pain or tightness

cough

coughing up blood

dark urine

decreased urine output

difficulty in breathing or swallowing

difficulty swallowing

dilated neck veins

extreme tiredness or weakness

fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse

fever

hives, itching, skin rash

increased menstrual flow or vaginal bleeding

irregular breathing

itching, pain, redness, swelling, tenderness, or warmth on the skin

light-colored stools

nosebleeds

pain in the groin or genitals

pale skin

paleness or cold feeling in the fingertips and toes

paralysis

pounding in the ears

prolonged bleeding from cuts

puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

red or dark brown urine

severe or continuing stomach pain

sharp back pain just below the ribs

sneezing

sore throat

swelling of the face, fingers, feet, or lower legs

tingling or pain in the fingers or toes when exposed to cold temperatures

tremor

unusual bleeding or bruising

upper right abdominal or stomach pain

yellow eyes and skin

Incidence not known

Blindness

bloating

clear or bloody discharge from nipple

decreased vision

delusions of persecution, mistrust, suspiciousness, and/or combativeness

dimpling of the breast skin

eye pain

gaseous

indigestion

inverted nipple

lump in the breast or under the arm

pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck

pains in the stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back

persistent crusting or scaling of the nipple

pinpoint red spots on the skin

recurrent fever

redness of swelling of the breast

severe constipation

severe cramping

sore on the skin of the breast that does not heal

sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth

stomach fullness

swollen glands

tearing

weakness of the muscles in your face

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:

Symptoms of overdose

Anxiety

blurred vision

chills

cold sweats

coma

confusion

cool, pale skin

depression

dizziness

fast heartbeat

feeling of warmth

headache

increased hunger

nausea

nervousness

nightmares

redness of the face, neck, arms and occasionally, upper chest

seizures

shakiness

slurred speech

unusual tiredness or weakness

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Abnormal stool

excess air or gas in the stomach or bowels

full feeling

pain, redness, stinging, swelling, tingling, or burning sensation at the injection site

passing of gas

Less common

Backache

feeling of warmth

hair loss

joint pain

redness of the face, neck, arms and occasionally, upper chest

Rare

Absent, missed, or irregular menstrual periods

change in vision

difficulty in moving

feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings

hearing loss

itching of the vagina or genital area

joint swelling or redness

loss of vision

memory loss

muscle pain

numbness or tingling of the hands, feet, or face

pain during sexual intercourse

sensation of spinning

stopping of menstrual bleeding

swelling of the breasts or breast soreness in both females and males

thick, white vaginal discharge with no odor or with a mild odor

unexpected or excess milk flow from the breasts

Incidence not known

Decreased interest in sexual intercourse

inability to have or keep an erection

loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance

unexpected or excess milk flow from the breasts

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Octreotide

thumbs-up

Pros

Can be stored at room temperature for 2 weeks if needed

Can be injected under the skin or through a vein

thumbs-down

Cons

Needs to be injected 2 to 4 times per day

Can cause changes to your blood sugar and thyroid hormone levels

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Octreotide

pharmacist

  • Octreotide interacts with many commonly used medications, such as certain heart medications (e.g., beta blockers) and diabetes medications. Make sure to tell your care team about all the medications you're taking, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, before and during treatment with octreotide.

    • Octreotide raises the risk of unintended pregnancies for people who are able to become pregnant. If you're sexually active, ask your care team about the best birth control options for you.

      • Tell your prescriber if you notice a change of color in your stool, bloating, or more diarrhea after starting octreotide. They can check to make sure you have enough pancreas enzymes, since this medication can lower them.

        • Check to see if your octreotide is either a single-dose or multi-dose vial. For single-dose vials, you must throw away the remainder of the medication after each use, even if there's still medication left.

          • Store new and unused octreotide in the refrigerator and away from light. But you can store them at room temperature for up to 2 weeks if needed.

            Tips on how to inject octreotide

            • Before starting octreotide, make sure your care team teaches you how to give yourself an injection under the skin so that you avoid accidentally hurting yourself or wasting the medication.

              • Always check your octreotide to make sure it's clear and colorless before use. If it's cloudy, discolored, or has particles, don't use it. Contact your prescriber or pharmacist for a possible replacement.

                • When it's time for a dose, take the vial out of the refrigerator and place it on a flat surface at room temperature to warm up. Don't try to warm it up any other way, such as with a microwave, because doing so can damage your medication.

                  • Always use a new needle for each injection to help prevent infections and blocked needles. Don't reuse or share your needles with other people to avoid spreading infections.

                    • Inject the medication under the skin in either your stomach, thighs, or hips. Rotate between different injection sites to avoid irritation.

                      • Throw away all used needles and empty octreotide pens in a sharps container. This helps lower the risk of needle-stick injuries. Don't throw away needles and pens in your regular trash can.

                        faqs

                        Frequently asked questions about Octreotide

                        How long do octreotide side effects last?
                        It depends on the side effect. For example, diarrhea and stomach upset from octreotide are expected to get better over time. But other side effects, such as high or low blood sugar levels or low thyroid hormone levels, might last throughout your treatment and even a little bit after stopping the medication. Contact your prescriber if you're concerned about how long certain side effects from octreotide might last.
                        How does octreotide work for diarrhea?
                        The hormone somatostatin works in the gut by reducing secretions, slowing intestinal movement, and preventing the release of certain hormones. Since octreotide is similar to somatostatin, it works in the same way to help treat diarrhea.
                        How does octreotide stop variceal bleeding?
                        Variceal bleeding happens when veins in the gut become enlarged (varices) and burst due to high blood pressure around the liver. This can occur in people with liver cirrhosis. Although not FDA-approved for this, octreotide is a first-choice option prescribed off-label for variceal bleeding. It works by tightening blood vessels in the gut, reducing blood flow to the bleeding varices, and lowering pressure around the liver. Octreotide is typically given as an intravenous (IV) infusion in the hospital and is usually stopped before discharge.
                        How do you administer octreotide?
                        Octreotide is given as an injection under the skin in either your stomach, thighs, or hips. To lower the risk of bruising and irritation, rotate between different injection sites so that the same site isn't used repeatedly.
                        Does octreotide increase blood pressure?
                        It's possible for octreotide to raise your blood pressure, but it's not common. In a small study looking at octreotide for acromegaly, some people had higher blood pressure. Ask your prescriber if you have concerns about your blood pressure when taking this medication.
                        Does octreotide increase blood sugar?
                        Octreotide can cause both high and low blood sugar levels. Studies show about 16% of people using octreotide for acromegaly experienced high blood sugar, while 3% experienced low blood sugar. Your prescriber will likely ask you to check your blood sugar levels regularly after you start octreotide. If you're already taking diabetes medications, your prescriber might need to make adjustments to the doses of those medications.
                        Is octreotide a chemotherapy drug?
                        No, octreotide isn't chemotherapy. Chemotherapy are medications that target and kill cancer (tumors). Octreotide can be used to treat symptoms like diarrhea and flushing caused by certain tumors, but it doesn't directly kill or shrink cancer cells.
                        What is the difference between lanreotide and octreotide?
                        Both lanreotide (Somatuline Depot) and octreotide are somatostatin analogs that are quite similar to each other. They're both used for treating acromegaly and symptoms from certain types of tumors. But the types of tumors that each can be used for slightly differ. Also, another difference is octreotide is given multiple times per day whereas lanreotide (Somatuline Depot) is given once per month. Discuss with your prescriber if you have questions about how these medications compare.
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                        What are the risks and warnings for Octreotide?

                        Octreotide can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                        risk-warning

                        Changes in blood sugar

                        • Risk factors: Blood sugar problems

                          Octreotide can cause the hormones that control your blood sugar to be out of balance. This can result in low blood sugar or high blood sugar. Your prescriber might have you keep track of your blood sugar regularly, especially when you first start octreotide and when there's a change in your dose. If you're already taking diabetes medications, your doses might need to be adjusted. Be familiar with symptoms of high blood sugar, such as feeling very thirsty, needing to urinate often, and feeling very tired. Also, make sure you can recognize signs of low blood sugar, such as feeling faint, shaking, sweating, and dizziness. It's important to treat low blood sugar right away and get medical help if your symptoms don't improve because not doing so can become life-threatening. If you have any symptoms or questions about blood sugar problems, talk with your prescriber.

                          risk-warning

                          Heartbeat and heart rhythm problems

                          • Risk factors: Heartbeat or heart rhythm problems | Taking medications that affect your heartbeat or heart rhythm | Taking higher doses of octreotide | Receiving octreotide infused through a vein (IV)

                            Octreotide can cause heartbeat or heart rhythm problems, which can be life-threatening. Your risk for these problems is higher if you already have heart problems or are taking medications that can change your heartbeat and heart rhythm, such as beta-blockers. Make sure to tell your prescriber about all the medications you're taking and also check with them before you start any new medications. If you feel symptoms of heart problems, such as pounding chest, trouble breathing, feeling faint or lightheaded, or chest pain, call 911 right away.

                            risk-warning

                            Gallstones

                            Octreotide can raise your risk of gallstones and related problems, such as inflammation of your gallbladder, bile ducts, or pancreas. In very serious cases, your gallbladder might need to be removed. If you get symptoms of gallstones, such as sudden pain in the upper right portion of your stomach area, back pain between your shoulder blades, nausea, or vomiting, stop octreotide and get medical help right away.

                            risk-warning

                            Low thyroid hormone

                            Although rare, octreotide can lower the amount of thyroid hormone your body makes and cause hypothyroidism. Because of this, your prescriber might order lab work to check your thyroid hormones regularly while you take this medication. If you get symptoms such as tiredness, weight gain, and feeling cold, contact your prescriber right away.

                            risk-warning

                            Not absorbing nutrients properly

                            Octreotide can lead to poor absorption of nutrients, such as vitamin B12, fats, and zinc. If you experience symptoms like fats in your bowel movements, loose stools, weight loss, or stomach bloating talk with your prescriber.

                            In addition, changes in nutrient absorption might also affect the absorption of certain medications, such as cyclosporine. Let your prescriber know what other medications you're taking so they can see if their doses need to be adjusted.

                            risk-warning

                            Unintended pregnancies

                            Because octreotide affects the level of certain hormones, it can raise the risk of unintended pregnancies for those who are able to become pregnant. If you're sexually active and taking octreotide, ask your prescriber about what birth control options are best for you.

                            dosage

                            Octreotide dosage forms

                            kit
                            Kit
                            DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                            10mg for injection1 kit$612.51$612.51
                            20mg for injection1 kit$649.03$649.03
                            30mg for injection1 kit$968.40$968.40

                            Typical dosing for Octreotide

                            Octreotide is given as an injection under the skin in either your stomach, thighs, or hip. Your prescriber will adjust your dose of octreotide based on your symptoms and lab results related to the condition you're being treated for.

                            • Acromegaly: The typical starting dose is 50 mcg three times per day. The typical maintenance dose is 100 mcg injected 3 times per day.

                            • Carcinoid tumors: The typical starting dose is 100 mcg to 600 mcg daily total, split up into 2 to 4 doses. The typical maintenance dose is around 450 mcg daily total, injected in doses split up throughout the day.

                            • Vasoactive intestinal peptide tumors (VIPomas): The typical starting dose is 200 mcg to 300 mcg daily total, split up into 2 to 4 doses. The typical maintenance dose is 150 mcg to 450 mcg daily total, injected in doses split up throughout the day.

                            Octreotide injection can also be given intravenously by a healthcare professional.

                            interactions

                            Interactions between Octreotide and other drugs

                            Octreotide may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Octreotide. Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                            Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                            Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                            Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                            alternatives

                            What are alternatives to Octreotide?

                            There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Octreotide. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                            Octreotide
                            Used for:
                            $122.53 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                            Mycapssa (octreotide)
                            Used for:
                            $6773.12 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                            Sandostatin Lar Depot (octreotide)
                            Used for:
                            $1714.08 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                            images

                            Octreotide images

                            colorless - Octreotide Acetate 100mcg / ml Solution for Injection
                            This medicine is Colorless Vial.colorless - Octreotide Acetate 100mcg / ml Solution for Injection
                            colorless - Octreotide Acetate 100mcg / mL Solution for Injection
                            This medicine is Colorless Vial.colorless - Octreotide Acetate 100mcg / mL Solution for Injection
                            colorless - Octreotide Acetate 100mcg / mL Solution for Injection
                            This medicine is Colorless Vial.colorless - Octreotide Acetate 100mcg / mL Solution for Injection

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                            References

                            Best studies we found

                            Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Single-dose or multi-dose?

                            Fallo, F., et al. (1998). Effects of octreotide on 24-h blood pressure profile in acromegaly. American Journal of Hypertension.

                            Gland Pharma Limited. (2024). Octreotide acetate injection, solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                            View All References (8)

                            Kaplan, D. E., et al. (2024). AASLD Practice Guidance on risk stratification and management of portal hypertension and varicies in cirrhosis. Hepatology.

                            Li, Y., et al. (2009). Management of variceal hemorrhage. Gastroenterology Research.

                            National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2020). Acromegaly.

                            Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc. (2023). Part III: Consumer information: Sandostatin® (octretotide acetate injection).

                            Rehman, H., et al. (2024). Real-world comparison of terlipressin vs. octreotide as an adjuvant treatment in the management of variceal bleeding. Scientific Reports.

                            Sandhu, S., et al. (2023). ViPoma. StatPearls.

                            You and Your Hormones. (2021). Growth hormone.

                            You and Your Hormones. (2021). Somatostatin.

                            GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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