Octreotide Is a Synthetic Somatostatin Analog Used to Treat Acromegaly, Carcinoid Syndrome, and VIPomas

Octreotide is a prescription medication that mimics a natural hormone called somatostatin. It works by slowing down the release of certain hormones and chemicals in your body — most notably growth hormone, insulin, glucagon, and gastrointestinal hormones. It's been used for decades and remains one of the most important medications for several rare but serious conditions.

Whether you've just been prescribed Octreotide or you're researching it for the first time, this guide covers everything you need to know in 2026.

What Is Octreotide?

Brand and Generic Names

Octreotide is the generic name. You may also see it called Octreotide Acetate. Brand-name versions include:

• Sandostatin — immediate-release injection (Novartis)
• Sandostatin LAR Depot — long-acting monthly injection (Novartis)
• Bynfezia Pen — subcutaneous pen injector (Sun Pharma; discontinued in 2021)
• Mycapssa — oral delayed-release capsules (Amryt Pharma)

Drug Class

Octreotide belongs to the somatostatin analog class of medications. Somatostatin is a hormone your body naturally produces that acts as a "brake" on many other hormones and bodily processes.

Manufacturer

The original brand, Sandostatin, is made by Novartis. Generic versions are produced by several manufacturers, including Avet, Fresenius Kabi, Hikma, Sagent, and Teva (which makes a generic LAR formulation approved in October 2024).

FDA Approval

Octreotide was first approved by the FDA in 1988 for the treatment of acromegaly. Sandostatin LAR Depot (the long-acting formulation) was approved in 1998. Mycapssa, the first oral somatostatin analog, received FDA approval in 2020.

Controlled Substance Status

Octreotide is not a controlled substance. It has no DEA scheduling and no abuse potential.

What Is Octreotide Used For?

FDA-Approved Uses

• Acromegaly — reduces excess growth hormone and IGF-1 levels in patients who haven't responded adequately to surgery or radiation, or who can't undergo those treatments
• Carcinoid syndrome — manages severe diarrhea and flushing episodes caused by metastatic carcinoid tumors
• VIPomas — treats profuse watery diarrhea caused by vasoactive intestinal peptide-secreting tumors
• Acromegaly maintenance (Mycapssa) — oral maintenance therapy for patients who have already responded to injectable Octreotide or Lanreotide

Off-Label Uses

Doctors also prescribe Octreotide for several conditions not on the official FDA label, including:

• Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs)
• Esophageal variceal bleeding
• Hepatorenal syndrome
• Chemotherapy-induced or AIDS-related refractory diarrhea
• Dumping syndrome after stomach surgery
• Congenital hyperinsulinism
• Small intestinal fistulas
• Prevention of carcinoid crisis during surgery

How Is Octreotide Taken?

Octreotide comes in several formulations, and the right one depends on your condition and treatment stage:

Immediate-Release Subcutaneous Injection

This is the most common starting formulation. It's injected under the skin (subcutaneously) 2 to 4 times daily, usually between meals and at bedtime. Typical starting doses:

• Acromegaly: 50 mcg three times daily
• Carcinoid tumors: 100–600 mcg per day, divided into 2–4 doses
• VIPomas: 200–300 mcg per day in 2–4 divided doses

Patients can learn to self-inject at home.

LAR Depot (Long-Acting) Intramuscular Injection

Once you're stable on immediate-release Octreotide, your doctor may switch you to the LAR Depot formulation. This is given as an intramuscular injection in the buttock once every 4 weeks by a healthcare professional. Available doses are 10 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg.

Mycapssa Oral Capsules

Mycapssa is the first and only oral somatostatin analog. It's approved for acromegaly maintenance in patients already responding to injectable Octreotide or Lanreotide. The dose is 20 mg twice daily (up to 40 mg twice daily), taken on an empty stomach — at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating.

Who Should Not Take Octreotide?

Octreotide is contraindicated in people with a known hypersensitivity (allergy) to Octreotide or any component of the formulation.

Additionally, your doctor should use caution and monitor closely if you have:

• Diabetes — Octreotide affects blood sugar regulation
• Gallbladder disease — risk of gallstones increases with long-term use
• Heart conditions — especially bradycardia or conduction abnormalities
• Thyroid disorders — Octreotide can suppress thyroid function
• Liver or kidney disease — may require dose adjustments

Pregnant women should only use Octreotide if clearly necessary (Pregnancy Category B). It passes into breast milk, so breastfeeding requires careful consideration with your doctor.

For a full breakdown of potential side effects, see our guide: Octreotide Side Effects: What to Expect.

How Much Does Octreotide Cost?

Octreotide prices vary widely depending on the formulation:

• Generic immediate-release injection: approximately $40–$110 for 10 vials (100 mcg/mL) with a coupon
• Sandostatin LAR Depot (brand): $6,700–$8,500 per monthly injection
• Generic Octreotide LAR (Teva): $3,000–$5,500 per monthly injection
• Mycapssa oral capsules: approximately $8,000–$10,000 per month

Most insurance plans cover Octreotide but typically require prior authorization. Many plans also require step therapy — starting with generic immediate-release before approving LAR or brand formulations. Specialty pharmacy distribution is usually required for LAR and Mycapssa.

For tips on reducing your costs, see: How to Save Money on Octreotide.

Final Thoughts

Octreotide has been a mainstay treatment for acromegaly, carcinoid syndrome, and VIPomas for nearly four decades. With the recent approval of generic LAR formulations and the Mycapssa oral option, patients have more choices than ever in 2026 — though finding the medication in stock can still be a challenge.

If you're starting Octreotide, understanding how it works, what drug interactions to watch for, and how to find the right doctor can help you get the most out of your treatment. Use Medfinder to locate Octreotide in stock near you and take control of your care.