How does it work?

Lanreotide is a medicine similar to a naturally occurring hormone in the body called somatostatin. Somatostatin is produced in various parts of the body such as the brain, gut and pancreas. It acts by preventing the release of other hormones found in the body, including growth hormone and insulin. Lanreotide is used for the relief of symptoms of tumours in the body that produce excessive amounts of hormones, such as in acromegaly. A tumour in the part of the brain known as the pituitary gland causes acromegaly and it is this tumour that produces excessive amounts of growth hormone. Lanreotide is therefore used to treat the symptoms of acromegaly by decreasing levels of growth hormone in the body, but it is not however used to treat the actual tumour.

What is it used for?

Increased hormone production resulting in enlarged facial features, hands and feet (acromegaly)

Relief of symptoms of tumours affecting specialized nerve cells which secrete hormones, resulting in an excess production of the hormones (neuroendocrine tumours)

Warning!

There is insufficient information regarding the safety and efficacy of this medicine in children. It is not recommended for children.

An ultrasound examination of the gall bladder is recommended before treatment is started and at regular 6 to 12 month intervals.

Monitoring of blood sugar levels is recommended, particularly for individuals taking anti-diabetic medicines.

Use with caution in

Decreased kidney function

Decreased liver function (hepatic dysfunction)

Diabetes mellitus

Gall bladder disease

Thyroid disease

Not to be used in

Breastfeeding

Pregnancy

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Abdominal pain

Diarrhoea

Excess gas in the stomach and intestines (flatulence)

Changes in blood sugar levels

Nausea and vomiting

Loss of appetite

Gallstones

Redness around injection site

Pain and swelling at site of injection

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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