Octreotide vaccine: Shall we talk about this simply?

Has your doctor prescribed you an injection called Octreotide? Maybe it's because you have a condition called Acromegaly, or it could be to control symptoms like diarrhea caused by certain types of cancer. Whatever the reason, it's normal to be a little curious, and maybe even a little scared, about a new medication. So today, let's discuss everything about this Octreotide injection in a very simple way, in a way that you can understand, as if you were talking to a close friend.

What exactly is this Octreotide injection?

Simply put, octreotide is a synthetic drug that works like a hormone called somatostatin, which is naturally present in our bodies. It is used for two main purposes.

1. To control the condition of Acromegaly: Imagine, our body has a hormone that helps us grow taller and taller, called Growth Hormone. Normally, when we become adults, the production of this hormone is largely controlled. But for some people, this hormone is secreted in excess. Then the bones of the hands, feet, and face start to grow unnecessarily. That is the condition called Acromegaly. This octreotide injection controls the excessive production of growth hormone.

2. To control the symptoms caused by some cancers: Some types of cancer (especially Neuroendocrine Tumors) release various hormones into the body. This can cause things like flushing and severe watery diarrhea. This vaccine helps control the release of those hormones and reduce those annoying symptoms.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine

Before starting this medication, it is very important to give your doctor a complete description of your health condition. This information is essential to decide whether this medication is right for you. Be sure to mention the following in particular:

• If you have diabetes (this is very important because this medicine affects blood sugar levels)
• If you have gallbladder disease , which means a condition such as gallstones.
• If you have kidney disease or liver disease .
• If there is any problem with the thyroid gland (thyroid disease) .
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this octreotide medication, or to any other medication, food, or dye.
• If you are pregnant, or trying to get pregnant.
• If you are a mother who is breastfeeding your child.

How is this vaccine used?

This is not a shot that you can give yourself at home. It is an injection that is given into a muscle , usually in the buttocks. So it is always given to you by a doctor or a trained nurse in a hospital or clinic. You usually get this shot about every 4 weeks.

What if I miss a dose of the vaccine?

Getting this vaccine on time is very important for the success of your treatment. If you are unable to get the vaccine on time, do not panic and call your doctor immediately. He or she will tell you what to do next.

What if I take too much medicine?

This is a professional administration so the chances of this happening are very low. However, if you think you have taken too much of this medicine, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately. Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

Things to keep in mind when taking this medicine

You need to pay a little more attention to your body while taking this medicine.

Keep an eye on your blood sugar levels.

This is the most important thing. Octreotide can cause your blood sugar levels to go down or up.

• Symptoms of low blood sugar: Cold sweats, extreme hunger, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, shakiness, extreme fatigue, irritability, blurred vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, eat something sweet (sugar, toffee) immediately and call your doctor.
• Symptoms of high blood sugar: If you feel thirsty more often, need to urinate more than usual, feel very hungry, or have blurred vision, these could be signs of high blood sugar. Tell your doctor about this immediately.

Vitamin B12 level

There is a slight chance that your vitamin B12 levels may decrease if you continue taking this medication. Therefore, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor about your diet and the types of vitamins you are taking and get the necessary advice.

What are the possible side effects?

Like any medicine, this one can cause some side effects. But not everyone gets them. Let's take a look at what these side effects are, and what to do if they occur.

Other medications that may interact with this medicine

This is also very important. If you are taking other medications while taking this medicine, there may be interactions between them. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medications, vitamins, and herbal remedies you are taking without hiding anything.

Be sure to inform us, especially if you are using the following medications:

• Medications like Cisapride, Dronedarone, Pimozide
• Radioactive drugs such as Lutetium Lu 177 dotatate
• Bromocriptine
• Some medications taken for heart disease or high blood pressure
• Cyclosporine
• Diabetes medications (including insulin)
• Quinidine

This list is not complete, so it's best to tell your doctor about everything you're taking.

Octreotide, Sandostatin, Acromegaly, Growth hormone, Cancer, Side effects, Diabetes