Sometimes, changes in hormone levels in our body can cause various health problems. For example, a condition called 'Acromegaly', which occurs when the body's growth hormone (Growth Hormone) increases too much, or it is necessary to control symptoms such as severe diarrhea caused by some types of cancer. So, a special and very important injection that doctors use in such cases is called Octreotide. Perhaps you have also been prescribed this medicine. So, today we will talk in detail about this medicine, what it does, and what you need to be careful about while using it.
Simply put, what is Octreotide?
Octreotide is a synthetic drug that works in the same way as a hormone called somatostatin, which is naturally present in our bodies. Its main function is to control the production of certain hormones in the body, especially growth hormone.
There are two main uses for this:
1. Control acromegaly: This is a condition in which the pituitary gland in the brain secretes too much growth hormone. Then, in adulthood, things like the hands, feet, and facial bones start to grow abnormally. So, octreotide works by reducing the secretion of this excess hormone and controlling the symptoms.
2. Control symptoms caused by some cancers: This vaccine is particularly helpful in controlling flushing and watery diarrhea caused by cancers such as carcinoid tumors.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes this medicine, he or she will need to have a complete picture of your health. This medicine may interact with certain medical conditions. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell your doctor about them.
| Your health condition | What to tell the doctor |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | Tell your doctor if you have diabetes and what medications you are taking. This medication can affect your blood sugar levels. |
| Gallbladder disease | Tell us if you have or have had gallstones or other medical conditions. |
| Kidney disease | Please inform us if you have any problems with your kidney function. |
| Liver disease | It is important to mention any problems with liver function. |
| Thyroid disease | If you have any changes in your thyroid hormones or other problems, please let us know. |
| Allergies | Be sure to mention any allergies to octreotide or any other medicine, food, or dye. |
| Pregnancy or breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, tell your doctor before taking this medicine. |
How should this vaccine be used?
This medicine is given as an injection. It is injected under the skin (subcutaneously) or, in an emergency, into a vein. You will usually receive this from a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic.
However, sometimes, you may be asked to give yourself this vaccine at home. If that happens, you will be clearly instructed on how to prepare it and how to inject it. Use the correct dose, at the correct time, as your doctor tells you.
Important: After taking the vaccine out of the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature before injecting it. Never heat it artificially (e.g., in the microwave).
What do you do with used needles?
This is very important. Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. Doing so can be dangerous to others. There is a special sharps container for these. If you don't have one, ask your doctor about how to get one.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you suddenly think you have taken too much of this medicine, do not delay. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What should I be especially careful about when taking the medicine?
It's important to pay a little more attention to your body while taking this medication.
- Regular medical checkups: Be sure to go to your doctor's appointments and check your condition.
- Rotate the injection site: If you inject the same area every time, the area can become sore, red, and swollen. To avoid this, rotate the injection site each time.
- Blood sugar levels: This is the main thing to watch out for. Octreotide can cause low or high blood sugar levels. So be aware of these symptoms.
| Blood sugar level change | Features to look out for |
|---|---|
| Low Blood Sugar | Feeling cold, cold sweats, drowsiness, excessive hunger, rapid heartbeat, headache, nausea, agitation, tremors, and weakness. |
| High Blood Sugar | Feeling more thirsty or hungry than usual, needing to urinate more frequently, extreme fatigue, blurred vision. |
| If you experience any of these symptoms, notify your doctor immediately. | |
- Vitamin B12: Long-term use of this medication may cause a decrease in vitamin B12 levels in the body. Therefore, talk to your doctor about your diet and the types of vitamins you are taking to make sure you are getting the necessary nutrients.
What side effects might I experience?
Like any medicine, this one can have side effects. Some are serious, some are common.
| Possible side effects of using octreotide | |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| |
| Common side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist or are bothersome: | |
|
How to store the medicine?
To maintain the quality of the medicine, it is very important to store it properly.
- Store in the refrigerator: This medicine should generally be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius.
- Protect from light: Avoid exposing the medicine to light.
- Storage at room temperature: If necessary, it can be stored at room temperature (between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius), protected from light, for up to 14 days. However, do not store for more than 14 days.
- Disposal: If using a multiple dose vial, discard the remainder 14 days after first use. Discard any remaining contents of single-use ampoules immediately after use.
- Keep out of reach of children: This is very important. Do not leave medicines where children can get them.
Remember, this article is for general information only. For any questions you may have about your medical condition or medication, it is best and safest to talk to your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Octreotide is a special medicine that is given as an injection to control certain hormone levels in the body.
- Before using the medicine, be sure to tell your doctor about your diabetes, liver, kidney, gallbladder diseases, and all allergies.
- Always be aware of signs of low or high blood sugar levels. If you notice any changes, inform your doctor immediately.
- Never throw used needles and syringes into the regular trash. Dispose of them safely in a special container.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe allergic symptoms, changes in heart rate, or severe abdominal pain.
- If you have any concerns about this medication, never hesitate to discuss it with your doctor.
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