Somopin
Generic Name
Octreotide
Manufacturer
Example Pharma Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| somopin 6 mg tablet | ৳ 10.00 | ৳ 100.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Somopin 6 mg tablet contains Octreotide, a synthetic somatostatin analog, used to treat conditions characterized by excessive hormone secretion such as acromegaly and certain neuroendocrine tumors, as well as for managing severe diarrhea associated with VIPomas and carcinoid syndrome.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose: 6 mg orally twice daily, adjusted based on clinical response and IGF-1 levels. Max dose: 12-18 mg daily.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment required, but monitor for renal function.
Renal_impairment
Consider dose reduction in severe renal impairment (CrCl <30 mL/min).
How to Take
Take orally with water, preferably on an empty stomach (at least 30 minutes before or 1 hour after meals) to optimize absorption. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
Mechanism of Action
Octreotide mimics natural somatostatin, inhibiting the secretion of various hormones including growth hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone, insulin, glucagon, and gastrointestinal peptides. It binds to somatostatin receptors (SSTRs), particularly SSTR2 and SSTR5, on target cells to exert its inhibitory effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Varies with formulation; typically within hours for symptomatic relief.
Excretion
Mainly renal excretion of unchanged drug and metabolites.
Half life
Approximately 1.5-2 hours (for conventional injectable), likely extended for oral sustained-release formulations (e.g., 6-12 hours or more).
Absorption
Rapidly but incompletely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; oral bioavailability is low but improved with specific formulations.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic metabolism, undergoes some peptide cleavage.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to octreotide or any component of the formulation
- Patients with uncontrolled diabetes should be carefully monitored.
Drug Interactions
Cyclosporine
May decrease cyclosporine absorption, requiring dose adjustment.
Bromocriptine
May increase bromocriptine bioavailability.
Insulin/Oral Hypoglycemics
May alter glucose regulation, requiring dose adjustment of antidiabetic agents.
Beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers
May interact, requiring monitoring.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light. Keep out of the reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and headache. Management is symptomatic and supportive. No specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Excretion in human milk is unknown; caution advised during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to octreotide or any component of the formulation
- Patients with uncontrolled diabetes should be carefully monitored.
Drug Interactions
Cyclosporine
May decrease cyclosporine absorption, requiring dose adjustment.
Bromocriptine
May increase bromocriptine bioavailability.
Insulin/Oral Hypoglycemics
May alter glucose regulation, requiring dose adjustment of antidiabetic agents.
Beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers
May interact, requiring monitoring.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light. Keep out of the reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and headache. Management is symptomatic and supportive. No specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Excretion in human milk is unknown; caution advised during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities
Patent Status
Patent expired for generic, brand may have formulation patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Multiple clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of octreotide in acromegaly, neuroendocrine tumors, and other indications, including studies on oral formulations to improve patient convenience.
Lab Monitoring
- IGF-1 and GH levels (for acromegaly)
- Blood glucose levels
- Thyroid function tests (TSH)
- Liver function tests
- Gallbladder ultrasound (periodically for gallstone formation)
Doctor Notes
- Educate patients on potential for gallstone formation and the importance of monitoring.
- Advise about potential blood sugar fluctuations, especially for diabetic patients.
- Consider oral formulation for improved patient adherence in chronic conditions.
Patient Guidelines
- Take medicine as directed by your doctor.
- Report any severe or persistent side effects.
- Do not stop treatment abruptly without consulting your doctor.
- Monitor blood sugar regularly if diabetic.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Somopin may cause dizziness or visual disturbances in some patients. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet.
- Stay hydrated.
- Avoid alcohol, which may exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Regular exercise as advised by doctor.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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