What is octreotide?
Octreotide is a medication given by injection that acts like a natural hormone called somatostatin. It may be used in addition to other treatments to help manage the effects of certain tumors (insulinomas and gastrinomas) in cats, dogs, and ferrets. In cats, it has been used to help treat chylothorax (buildup of lymphatic fluid in the chest).
It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully, as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label.
How do I give my pet octreotide?
- Octreotide comes in an injectable form.
- Injections are given subcutaneously (under the skin) by your veterinary team.
- Follow your veterinarian’s directions for post-injection care.
This medication should start to take effect within 1–2 hours, although outward effects may not be immediately noticeable.
Are there any potential side effects from octreotide?
Octreotide may cause the following side effects:
- Decreased appetite
Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, contact your veterinarian immediately:
- An allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
- Signs of hypoglycemia (e.g., lethargy, weaknesses, unresponsiveness)
Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses, but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours of discontinuing the medication, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
DO NOT USE octreotide in:
- Pets that are allergic to any component
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Pets with a history of gallbladder or liver disease
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
The following medications should be used with caution when given with octreotide:
- Beta-adrenergic receptor antagonists (e.g., atenolol, propranolol)
- Calcium channel blockers
- Cyclosporine
- Diuretics (e.g., furosemide)
- Insulin and other hypoglycemic agents
- QT interval prolonging drugs (e.g., ciprofloxacin, ketoconazole, ondansetron, clomipramine, etc)
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- Baseline and periodic blood glucose levels are required.
- Baseline and periodic heart rate and rhythm check are required.
- Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, contact your veterinarian.
How do I store octreotide?
- Your veterinarian will store the medication according to manufacturer’s directions.
- Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.
