Sandostatin Coupons & Discount Card - Compare Prices Near You

The following safety information highlights crucial risks and precautions associated with the use of octreotide. It is important to review these details carefully and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

• Blood Sugar Changes: Octreotide may disrupt the balance of hormones regulating blood sugar, potentially leading to hypo- or hyperglycemia. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is recommended, especially when starting or adjusting dosages of octreotide. If you are on diabetes medication, dosage adjustments may be necessary. Be aware of symptoms indicating high blood sugar, such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue, as well as signs of low blood sugar, including faintness, shaking, sweating, and dizziness. Immediate treatment of low blood sugar is crucial, and medical assistance should be sought if symptoms persist, as untreated hypoglycemia can be life-threatening. Consult your healthcare provider if you experience any symptoms or have concerns about blood sugar management.

• Cardiac Concerns: Octreotide can cause serious heart-related issues, including irregular heartbeat or rhythm, which may be life-threatening. Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or those taking medications like beta-blockers may have an increased risk. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are using and seek their advice before starting new ones. If you experience symptoms such as chest pounding, breathing difficulties, lightheadedness, or chest pain, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

• Gallstones: The use of octreotide can increase the risk of gallstones and associated complications, including inflammation of the gallbladder, bile ducts, or pancreas. In severe cases, surgical removal of the gallbladder may be necessary. Promptly discontinue octreotide and seek medical help if you experience sudden upper abdominal pain, back pain between the shoulder blades, nausea, or vomiting.

• Thyroid Function: Although rare, octreotide may reduce thyroid hormone production, leading to hypothyroidism. Regular thyroid hormone level checks may be advised by your healthcare provider. Report symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and sensitivity to cold to your prescriber immediately.

• Nutrient Absorption: Octreotide can impair the absorption of nutrients such as vitamin B12, fats, and zinc. If you notice symptoms like fatty stools, diarrhea, weight loss, or bloating, consult your healthcare provider.

• Pregnancy Risks: Octreotide may alter hormone levels, increasing the risk of unintended pregnancy for those who can conceive. If you are sexually active, discuss appropriate contraceptive options with your healthcare provider.

Please note that there are no specific contraindications listed for octreotide. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.

When taking this medication, you may experience some common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach discomfort, including gas and bloating. Minor dizziness, headaches, or pain and irritation at the injection site might also occur but are generally mild. These effects are typically not serious, but if they persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider for advice.

Occasionally, more serious side effects can develop, such as symptoms of gallbladder or liver problems, including severe nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or unexplained pain in the back or right shoulder. Some patients might notice signs of an underactive thyroid, like unexplained weight gain, cold intolerance, severe constipation, extreme tiredness, or a noticeable growth on the neck. Changes in heart conditions, such as irregular or slow heartbeat, numbness or tingling in the limbs, and weight loss, may also be of concern.

Blood sugar fluctuations, particularly in diabetic patients, are possible. Symptoms of high blood sugar include increased thirst and urination, while low blood sugar may present as nervousness, shakiness, sweating, and a fast heartbeat. It’s important to monitor your blood sugar levels and report any significant changes to your healthcare provider immediately.

Rarely, this medication can cause a severe allergic reaction. Seek urgent medical help if you experience symptoms like a rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. While these severe reactions are uncommon, it is crucial to recognize them and seek medical assistance promptly.

When taking Octreotide, it is crucial to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all other medications and supplements you are using, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal products. This is important because Octreotide can interact with various drugs, affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

There are certain medications that should not be used with Octreotide, as the combination could be harmful. These include drugs like Bepridil, Cisapride, Dronedarone, Levomethadyl, Mesoridazine, Pimozide, Piperaquine, Saquinavir, Sparfloxacin, Terfenadine, Thioridazine, and Ziprasidone. If you are prescribed any of these, your doctor may choose to adjust your treatment plan to avoid these interactions.

Additionally, while other medications might not be recommended alongside Octreotide, there may be cases where it is necessary to use them together. In such situations, your doctor might adjust the dosage or frequency of either Octreotide or the other drug. Some of these medications include Acarbose, Amiodarone, Ciprofloxacin, Clarithromycin, Fluoxetine, and Metformin, among others.

There are also drugs that, when used with Octreotide, might increase the risk of certain side effects. However, this combination might still be the most effective treatment option for you. Your doctor will carefully monitor your treatment and may adjust dosages as needed. Such medications include Lisinopril, Pegvisomant, and Telotristat Ethyl.

Always keep a comprehensive list of all your medications and share it with your healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective treatment.