Octride Depot 30mg Injection

1. Product Introduction

Octride Depot 30mg Injection is a long-acting formulation of Octreotide Acetate, a synthetic version of the naturally occurring hormone somatostatin. It belongs to a class of drugs called somatostatin analogs and is used to manage various hormone-related disorders and tumors.

This depot injection is designed for sustained release, offering therapeutic effects over a long period, typically administered once every 4 weeks. It works by inhibiting the excessive release of certain hormones and other secretions in the body, which are involved in conditions such as acromegaly, neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), and carcinoid syndrome.

Octride Depot is particularly beneficial for patients who require long-term hormone suppression and prefer less frequent dosing, as compared to daily or short-acting injections.

2. Uses of This Medicine

Octride Depot 30mg Injection is used to treat:

• Acromegaly – A condition where the body produces excess growth hormone, leading to enlarged body parts like hands, feet, and facial features.

• Carcinoid Tumors and Carcinoid Syndrome – Tumors that release serotonin and other substances causing symptoms like diarrhea, flushing, and wheezing.

• Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs) – Tumors that arise from hormone-producing cells, especially in the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas.

• VIPomas – Rare tumors of the pancreas that secrete vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), leading to chronic watery diarrhea.

• Bleeding Esophageal Varices (in some cases) – Used off-label for controlling bleeding in liver disease-related varices.

3. Benefits of This Medicine

• Long-Lasting Effect:
  Octride Depot offers extended hormone suppression with just one intramuscular injection every 4 weeks, ensuring patient convenience and compliance.

• Controls Hormone-Related Symptoms:
  Effectively reduces symptoms such as diarrhea, flushing, and abdominal pain associated with carcinoid syndrome and NETs.

• Reduces Tumor Growth:
  In some cases, Octreotide may slow down or stabilize the growth of certain neuroendocrine tumors.

• Improves Quality of Life:
  For patients with chronic hormonal disorders like acromegaly, Octride Depot helps restore normal hormone levels, alleviating symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and physical changes.

• Less Frequent Dosing:
  Compared to short-acting octreotide, the depot formulation is administered monthly, reducing the frequency of hospital or clinic visits.

• Well Tolerated:
  It has a well-established safety profile when monitored correctly, making it a reliable option for long-term treatment.

4. Side Effects

While Octride Depot 30mg Injection is generally safe and effective, some patients may experience side effects. These are usually mild to moderate and can be managed under medical supervision.

Common Side Effects:

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site

• Diarrhea or constipation

• Nausea or abdominal discomfort

• Headache

• Fatigue

• Flatulence or bloating

Less Common or Serious Side Effects:

• Gallstones or gallbladder issues

• Elevated blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia)

• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in diabetic patients

• Slow heart rate (bradycardia)

• Liver function abnormalities

• Hair loss (rare)

Monitoring Advice:

Patients on long-term Octreotide therapy should undergo regular monitoring of blood sugar, liver function tests, thyroid function, and gallbladder health (via ultrasound).

If you notice persistent symptoms or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling, itching, or difficulty breathing, contact your doctor immediately.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. What is Octride Depot 30mg Injection used for?
It is used to treat hormone-producing tumors such as carcinoid tumors and neuroendocrine tumors, as well as hormonal disorders like acromegaly.

Q2. How does Octreotide work in the body?
Octreotide mimics the action of the natural hormone somatostatin, which helps reduce the production and release of several other hormones and secretions in the body.

Q3. How often should Octride Depot 30mg be administered?
It is usually administered once every 4 weeks (28 days) as an intramuscular injection by a healthcare professional.

Q4. Can Octride Depot be used in children?
It may be used in children under specialist supervision for certain rare conditions, but it is typically prescribed for adults.

Q5. Is Octride Depot a chemotherapy drug?
No, it is not chemotherapy. It is a hormone-based therapy (somatostatin analog) used for controlling hormone-related conditions and tumors.