Octreotide
Also known as: Sandostatin, Sandostatin LAR
Octreotide is an injectable medication used to manage specific hormone-secreting tumors (like insulinomas) or conditions like acromegaly. * **Administration:** Usually given by subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. Your veterinarian will show you how to administer this safely at home. * **Side Effects:** May cause gastrointestinal upset, including loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or bloating. It can also sting at the injection site. * **Monitoring:** Keep a close eye on your pet's symptoms and report any severe digestive issues or signs of pain to your vet. * **Expectations:** Not all tumors respond to this medication. Your vet will monitor your pet to determine if the treatment is effective.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
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What it is used for
- Management of pancreatic endocrine tumours and acromegaly
- Management of pancreatic endocrine tumours and acromegaly
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Anorexia
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Diarrhoea
- Steatorrhoea
- Hepatopathy
- Pain at injection sites
Cautions & contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to octreotide
- Normal precautions should be observed when handling and administering. > **Efficacy Note:** Tumours must express somatostatin receptors for the drug to be effective. Lack of response is common in veterinary insulinoma cases.
Frequently asked questions
What is Octreotide used for in pets?
Octreotide is an injectable medication used to manage specific hormone-secreting tumors (like insulinomas) or conditions like acromegaly. • Administration: Usually given by subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. Your veterinarian will show you how to administer this safely at home. • Side Effects: May cause gastrointestinal upset, including loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or bloating. It can also sting at the injection site. • Monitoring: Keep a close eye on your pet's symptoms and report any severe digestive issues or signs of pain to your vet. • Expectations: Not all tumors respond to this medication. Your vet will monitor your pet to determine if the treatment is effective.
Is Octreotide safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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