What is Lanreotide: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and More

Lanreotide is a synthetic hormone medication that mimics somatostatin, a natural hormone your body produces to regulate various functions. This injectable medicine helps control excessive hormone production in certain medical conditions, particularly those affecting the digestive system and hormone-producing tumors.

You receive lanreotide as a deep injection under your skin, typically once every four weeks. Think of it as a long-acting medication that works steadily in your body to keep hormone levels balanced when your natural systems aren't working properly.

What is Lanreotide Used For?

Lanreotide treats several specific conditions where your body produces too much of certain hormones. The most common use is for acromegaly, a condition where your pituitary gland makes excessive growth hormone, causing enlarged hands, feet, and facial features.

This medication also helps manage neuroendocrine tumors, which are unusual growths that can develop in various organs and release hormones inappropriately. Additionally, doctors prescribe lanreotide for carcinoid syndrome, where certain tumors cause symptoms like flushing, diarrhea, and heart problems.

Your doctor might also recommend lanreotide for other hormone-related conditions based on your specific medical situation. Each use depends on controlling hormone overproduction that's causing uncomfortable or dangerous symptoms.

How Does Lanreotide Work?

Lanreotide works by blocking specific receptors in your body that normally respond to growth hormone and other hormones. It's considered a moderately strong medication that effectively suppresses hormone production when used correctly.

The medication binds to somatostatin receptors throughout your body, particularly in the pituitary gland and digestive system. This binding action tells your hormone-producing cells to slow down their activity, similar to how a dimmer switch reduces light output.

Because lanreotide is long-acting, it provides steady hormone control for about four weeks after each injection. This consistent action helps prevent the hormone spikes that cause many of your symptoms.

How Should I Take Lanreotide?

Lanreotide comes as a pre-filled syringe that must be injected deep under your skin, usually in your upper outer thigh or buttocks. Most people receive this injection at their doctor's office or clinic from a trained healthcare provider.

You don't need to follow any special eating instructions before or after your lanreotide injection. The medication works independently of food, so you can eat normally on injection days.

The injection site should be rotated each time to prevent skin irritation. Your healthcare provider will clean the area thoroughly before giving the injection and may apply a small bandage afterward.

Some people experience mild discomfort at the injection site, which usually resolves within a day or two. Applying a cold compress for a few minutes can help reduce any soreness.

How Long Should I Take Lanreotide For?

Most people take lanreotide for months to years, depending on their specific condition and how well they respond to treatment. Your doctor will monitor your hormone levels and symptoms regularly to determine the right duration.

For acromegaly, treatment often continues long-term because the underlying pituitary problem typically doesn't resolve on its own. Your doctor will check your growth hormone levels every few months to ensure the medication is working effectively.

If you have neuroendocrine tumors, treatment length depends on factors like tumor size, location, and whether other treatments are being used alongside lanreotide. Some people need treatment for years, while others might use it for shorter periods.

Never stop lanreotide suddenly without talking to your doctor first. Stopping abruptly can cause your hormone levels to spike again, bringing back uncomfortable symptoms.

What Are the Side Effects of Lanreotide?

Common side effects of lanreotide are generally manageable and often improve as your body adjusts to the medication. Most people experience some digestive changes, which happen because the medication affects how your digestive system works.

Here are the side effects you might experience, starting with the most common ones:

• Diarrhea or loose stools, which usually improves after a few weeks
• Stomach pain or cramping, typically mild and temporary
• Nausea, especially during the first few injections
• Injection site reactions like redness, swelling, or tenderness
• Gallstones, which can develop with long-term use
• Changes in blood sugar levels, requiring monitoring if you have diabetes
• Headaches or dizziness, usually mild
• Fatigue or feeling more tired than usual

These digestive side effects happen because lanreotide slows down certain digestive processes. Most people find these effects become less bothersome over time as their body adapts.

Less common but more serious side effects include significant changes in heart rhythm, severe abdominal pain from gallstones, or signs of low blood sugar like shakiness and confusion. Contact your doctor right away if you experience any of these more serious symptoms.

Who Should Not Take Lanreotide?

Lanreotide isn't suitable for everyone, and your doctor will carefully review your medical history before prescribing it. People with certain heart conditions need extra monitoring because the medication can affect heart rhythm.

You should discuss lanreotide carefully with your doctor if you have diabetes, as the medication can affect blood sugar control. Your doctor might need to adjust your diabetes medications or monitoring schedule.

People with gallbladder problems should use lanreotide cautiously because it can increase the risk of gallstones. Your doctor will likely monitor your gallbladder function with regular imaging tests.

If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor about whether lanreotide is safe for you. The medication's effects on developing babies aren't fully understood, so your doctor will weigh the benefits against potential risks.

Lanreotide Brand Names

Lanreotide is available under the brand name Somatuline Depot in the United States. This is the most commonly prescribed form and comes as a pre-filled syringe for injection.

In other countries, lanreotide might be available under different brand names, but the active ingredient and how it works remain the same. Your pharmacist can help you understand which specific brand you're receiving.

All forms of lanreotide work similarly, regardless of the brand name. The key is receiving the correct dose at the right intervals as prescribed by your doctor.

Lanreotide Alternatives

Several other medications can treat similar conditions if lanreotide doesn't work well for you or causes bothersome side effects. Octreotide is another somatostatin analog that works similarly but requires more frequent injections.

Pasireotide is a newer option that might work better for some people with acromegaly who don't respond well to lanreotide. However, it can have different side effects, including more significant effects on blood sugar.

For some conditions, oral medications like cabergoline or pegvisomant might be alternatives, depending on your specific diagnosis and hormone levels. Your doctor will consider your individual situation when discussing alternatives.

Surgery might also be an option for certain conditions, particularly if you have a pituitary tumor causing acromegaly. Your doctor will discuss all available treatment options to find the best approach for you.

Is Lanreotide Better Than Octreotide?

Both lanreotide and octreotide are effective somatostatin analogs, but they have some practical differences that might make one more suitable for you. Lanreotide's main advantage is convenience, as you only need injections once a month compared to octreotide's more frequent dosing.

Many people prefer lanreotide because the monthly injection schedule is easier to manage and remember. This can lead to better treatment compliance, which is crucial for controlling hormone-related conditions effectively.

In terms of effectiveness, both medications work similarly well for most people. Some individuals might respond better to one than the other, but this varies from person to person and can't be predicted beforehand.

The side effect profiles are quite similar between the two medications, though some people might tolerate one better than the other. Your doctor will consider your lifestyle, medical history, and treatment preferences when choosing between them.