Sandostatin

Definition

Sandostatin is a synthetic version of somatostatin, a hormone that inhibits the release of several other hormones. It is used to treat severe diarrhea and flushing caused by certain types of cancer and to manage acromegaly.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sandostatin mimics natural somatostatin but has a longer half-life.
2. It is commonly administered via subcutaneous or intravenous injection.
3. Used to manage symptoms in patients with carcinoid tumors and vasoactive intestinal peptide tumors (VIPomas).
4. Effective in reducing growth hormone levels in patients with acromegaly.
5. Potential side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances, gallstones, and hyperglycemia.

Review Questions

• What conditions are treated using Sandostatin?
• How does Sandostatin differ from natural somatostatin?
• What are some common side effects associated with Sandostatin?

Related terms

Somatostatin: A naturally occurring hormone that inhibits the release of various other hormones.

Acromegaly: A hormonal disorder that results from excess growth hormone (GH) in adults.

VIPoma: A rare pancreatic tumor that secretes vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), leading to watery diarrhea, hypokalemia, and achlorhydria.