Lanreotide: Uses, indications and precautions when using

Lanreotide is indicated for the long-term treatment of acromegaly (acromegaly). They work by reducing the amount of growth hormone in the body to normal levels. In some cases Lanreotide is also used to prevent the growth of certain tumors in the stomach, intestines, or pancreas.

Lanreotide is commonly used to treat a condition called acromegaly (also called acromegaly) that occurs when the body makes too much growth hormone.
Lanreotide is indicated when surgery or radiation treatment has not been completely successful or cannot be applied. Treatment for acromegaly reduces the risk of serious problems like diabetes and heart disease.
Lanreotide is not a complete cure for acromegaly, but is intended for long-term treatment of this condition. In addition, Lanreotide is also used to treat certain other conditions, such as:
Cancer or tumor in the stomach, intestines, or pancreas. Lanreotide helps slow the growth of these tumors. Treat carcinoid syndrome by reducing the need for another medication to treat diarrhea or hot flashes caused by carcinoid syndrome.

Lanreotide is usually injected under the skin in the buttocks area as prescribed by the doctor, usually every 4 weeks. To reduce irritation from the injection, the doctor will alternately inject the left and right buttocks with each dose. The dose is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. A regular schedule of Lanreotide injections should be maintained for maximum benefit. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or tends to get worse.

Like many other drugs, Lanreotide can also bring some side effects such as: Headache, muscle pain, joint pain, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, increased blood pressure, loose stools, diarrhea diarrhea, constipation, upset stomach, bloating, or weight loss. After the injection, you may also experience pain and irritation at the injection site. If you have any of the following serious side effects after injection, tell your doctor right away: Signs of gallbladder problems, gallstones (e.g. fever, stomach pain, abdominal pain, nausea, severe vomiting, yellow eyes, jaundice, unexplained pain in the back, right shoulder). Signs of an underactive thyroid (e.g., severe constipation, cold intolerance, unexplained weight gain, unusual tiredness or extreme fatigue; tumor growth, swelling in the front of the neck) . Slow heart rate, mood swings (eg, Depression). In rare cases, Lanreotide can cause changes in blood sugar, especially in people with diabetes. Signs of high blood sugar would be increased thirst and urination. Signs of low blood sugar include: Anxiety, shaking, sweating, heart palpitations, and hunger. Tell your doctor right away if you experience an increase or decrease in your blood sugar while taking this medicine. Your blood sugar should be regularly monitored as directed by your doctor, and your doctor may consider adjusting your diabetes medications.

Before taking Lanreotide, note the following:
If you are allergic to Lanreotide or have any other condition, tell your doctor right away; Talk to your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have liver disease, diabetes, heart problems (e.g. slow heart rate, high blood pressure, valve problems) heart), thyroid problems, gallbladder problems (eg, Gallstones); Lanreotide can cause dizziness, drowsiness or blurred vision, so patients should not use it with stimulants and alcoholic beverages. Do not use machines, drive a car, or do anything that requires concentration or alertness while the medicine is working; For women who are pregnant, Lanreotide should be injected only when absolutely necessary. You should discuss the benefits and risks of the drug with your doctor before using it. It is not known whether Lanreotide passes into breast milk and causes unwanted effects on a nursing infant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Some other drugs that may interact with Lanreotide include: beta blockers (eg, Metoprolol, Propranolol), Pegvisomant.

Overdose : If you use Lanreotide in excess and you see symptoms such as fainting or difficulty breathing, take the patient to the emergency room immediately. Patients are encouraged to have regular health check-ups, especially to perform medical tests such as measuring growth hormone levels, measuring blood glucose levels, checking thyroid function, blood pressure, heart rate, etc. .to monitor progress and check for side effects. Missed dose: It is important to adhere to the correct Lanreotide injection schedule. If you miss a dose, talk to your doctor right away for a new injection schedule. Storage: Lanreotide should only be injected in medical facilities and should not be stored or preserved in private homes.

Reference source: Webmd