Octreotide
Sandostatin · SMS 201-995 · Somatostatin analog
A potent synthetic octapeptide analog of somatostatin that suppresses GH, IGF-1, insulin, and glucagon secretion, with clinical uses in acromegaly, carcinoid syndrome, and GI disorders.
Half-Life
~1.7 hours (immediate-release SC); LAR provides sustained release over 28 days
MW
1019.2 Da
Amino Acids
8 AA
Evidence
High Evidence
Regulatory Status
FDA-approved for acromegaly, carcinoid syndrome, and VIPomas. Sandostatin LAR approved for long-term management. Prescription-only. Widely used off-label for GI bleeding, pancreatitis, chylothorax, and dumping syndrome.
In Plain English
A lab-made, long-lasting version of the body's natural "stop GH" signal (somatostatin). Octreotide is used to treat conditions of excess growth hormone like acromegaly, and also calms overactive neuroendocrine tumors that cause symptoms like flushing and diarrhea. It's essentially a GH suppressor with a useful 2-hour window vs. somatostatin's 2-minute window.
Overview
Octreotide is a synthetic 8-amino acid cyclic peptide that mimics the pharmacological effects of somatostatin with far greater potency and a much longer half-life (somatostatin half-life: ~1-3 min; octreotide: ~2 hours). It potently suppresses growth hormone secretion, making it a cornerstone treatment for acromegaly. Beyond GH suppression, it inhibits insulin, glucagon, pancreatic polypeptide, and VIP secretion, and reduces splanchnic blood flow — useful in GI bleeding and carcinoid syndrome. In the performance research community, octreotide has been studied to manage IGF-1 levels and in contexts where GH suppression is desired. Long-acting formulations (Sandostatin LAR) provide month-long coverage from a single injection.
Common Formats
- Immediate-release subcutaneous injection (50-500 mcg)
- Sandostatin LAR Depot (10-40 mg IM monthly)
- IV infusion
Storage Notes
Sandostatin ampoules: refrigerate 2-8°C; can be stored at room temperature up to 2 weeks before use. LAR powder: refrigerate; bring to room temperature before mixing. Protect from light.
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Related Compounds
Somatostatin
A 14 (or 28) amino acid cyclic inhibitory neuropeptide produced throughout the body that suppresses growth hormone, insulin, glucagon, and multiple other hormones; the endogenous counterbalance to GHRH.
Cortistatin
A neuropeptide structurally related to somatostatin but with distinct immunomodulatory properties, researched for anti-inflammatory effects in autoimmune and inflammatory disease models including Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and sepsis.
Tesamorelin
FDA-approved GHRH analogue specifically studied for visceral fat reduction in HIV-associated lipodystrophy, with broader anti-aging research interest.
Sermorelin
A 29-amino acid truncated analogue of endogenous GHRH, FDA-approved for pediatric GHD and widely researched for anti-aging and body composition.
Educational Disclaimer: All information on this page is for educational and research purposes only. This does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.