What is the difference between Sandostatin and Sandostatin LAR?

Sandostatin is an immediate-release subcutaneous injection given 2-3 times daily, used for acute symptom control. Sandostatin LAR is a long-acting depot formulation injected intramuscularly once every 4 weeks, designed for chronic maintenance therapy. Patients are typically titrated on subcutaneous octreotide first, then transitioned to LAR.

Does octreotide shrink neuroendocrine tumors?

The PROMID trial showed octreotide LAR significantly delayed tumor progression in midgut NETs. Tumor shrinkage (partial response) is uncommon, occurring in only about 3-5% of patients, but stable disease is achieved in a majority. Octreotide is primarily antiproliferative rather than cytoreductive.

Why does octreotide cause gallstones?

Octreotide inhibits gallbladder motility and reduces bile secretion, leading to bile stasis and gallstone formation in 15-30% of patients on long-term therapy. Routine ultrasound monitoring of the gallbladder is recommended.

What is the recommended dose range for Octreotide?

The research dose range is SC: 100-600 mcg/day in 2-3 divided doses; LAR: 10-30 mg every 4 weeks, administered via Subcutaneous injection (immediate-release) or Intramuscular injection (LAR depot), SC: 2-3 times daily; LAR: once every 4 weeks.

peptide dosing

Octreotide Dosing & Reconstitution Guide

Complete dosing reference for Octreotide (Endocrine / Somatostatin Analog). Covers reconstitution, dose range, titration schedule, pharmacokinetics, and storage protocols for research use.

Dosing Protocol

Route: Subcutaneous injection (immediate-release) or Intramuscular injection (LAR depot) Frequency: SC: 2-3 times daily; LAR: once every 4 weeks Dose Range: SC: 100-600 mcg/day in 2-3 divided doses; LAR: 10-30 mg every 4 weeks Cycle Length: Ongoing as prescribed Timing: SC: between meals and at bedtime to minimize GI effects; LAR: administered by healthcare professional

Titration Schedule

Weeks 1-2: SC 100-200 mcg 2-3 times daily to assess tolerability Weeks 3-8: Continue SC while initiating LAR 20 mg IM every 4 weeks Week 12+: Adjust LAR dose (10-30 mg) based on symptom control and GH/IGF-1 levels

Storage

Lyophilized: Refrigerate at 2-8 °C (36-46 °F) Reconstituted: Sandostatin LAR: use immediately after reconstitution; SC ampoules stable at room temperature up to 14 days

Injection Sites

Abdomen, Thigh (SC), Gluteal muscle (LAR only)

Safety & Contraindications

Safety: Common (10-30%): nausea, abdominal pain/cramping, diarrhea, flatulence, constipation Gallbladder abnormalities: cholelithiasis in 15-30% with long-term use; cholecystitis, biliary sludge Glucose metabolism alterations: hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia depending on baseline hormonal status; monitor blood glucose

Contraindications: Known hypersensitivity to octreotide or any excipients; Caution in patients with diabetes mellitus (may alter insulin/glucagon balance); Caution in patients with renal impairment (dose adjustment for LAR formulation)

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Research Use Only. The information on this page is compiled from published research literature and is provided for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. All compounds referenced are intended for in vitro research use by qualified laboratories and institutions.