In this Article

• What is octreotide (Sandostatin)?
• What are the possible side effects of octreotide (Sandostatin)?
• What is the most important information I should know about octreotide (Sandostatin)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using octreotide (Sandostatin)?
• How should I use octreotide (Sandostatin)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Sandostatin)?
• What happens if I overdose (Sandostatin)?
• What should I avoid while using octreotide (Sandostatin)?
• What other drugs will affect octreotide (Sandostatin)?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using octreotide (Sandostatin)?

If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication. Before using octreotide, tell your doctor if you have:

• diabetes;
• gallbladder disease;
• heart disease;
• thyroid problems;
• pancreatitis;
• kidney disease;
• liver disease.

FDA pregnancy category B. Octreotide is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

Using octreotide can affect certain hormones that may make it easier for you to get pregnant, even if you were unable to get pregnant before. Talk to your doctor about using birth control to avoid unwanted pregnancy.

It is not known whether octreotide passes into breast milk. Do not use octreotide without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use octreotide (Sandostatin)?

Use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Octreotide is given as an injection under the skin or into a vein. Your doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider will give you this injection. You may be shown how to use your medicine at home. Do not self-inject this medicine if you do not fully understand how to give the injection and properly dispose of needles, IV tubing, and other items used in giving the medicine. Be sure to follow the instructions for the exact type of octreotide your doctor has prescribed for you.

Do not draw your octreotide dose into a syringe until you are ready to give yourself an injection. Do not use the medication if it has changed colors or has any particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.

Use each disposable needle only one time. Throw away used needles in a puncture-proof container (ask your pharmacist where you can get one and how to dispose of it). Keep this container out of the reach of children and pets.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood or urine will need to be tested on a regular basis. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Store this medication in the refrigerator, protected from light. Do not allow the medication to freeze.

To reduce discomfort from your injection, take the medicine bottle out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before using the medication. Allow the medicine to reach room temperature before using, but never warm the medicine in hot water or a microwave.

Throw away any medicine left in the bottle after 14 days of use. Then start a new bottle.

The Sandostatin LAR Depot kit should be kept at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes before mixing the medicine. Give the injection right away after mixing your dose.