Lanreotide

Lanreotide is a synthetic analogue of somatostatin, a naturally occurring inhibitory hormone which blocks the release of several other hormones, including growth hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), insulin and glucagon. Lanreotide binds to the same receptors as somatostatin, but with higher affinity. It has a longer half-life and can be administered less frequently. Below are the main uses of Lanreotide:

Acromegaly: This is a hormonal disorder that results from too much growth hormone (GH) in the body. Lanreotide helps in controlling the excessive production of growth hormone and thereby helps in managing the symptoms of acromegaly like abnormal growth of hands, feet, and face.

Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs): Lanreotide is used to treat neuroendocrine tumors in the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas that cannot be removed by surgery or have spread to other parts of the body. It works by reducing the amount of growth hormone and certain natural substances produced by the body, which slows down the growth of these tumors.

Thyrotropinoma: It is a pituitary gland tumor that produces an excessive amount of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), which can lead to hyperthyroidism. Lanreotide helps in reducing the secretion of TSH and thereby managing the symptoms of thyrotropinoma.

Carcinoid Syndrome: This is a group of symptoms associated with carcinoid tumors (neuroendocrine tumors) in the digestive system. Lanreotide helps in controlling the diarrhea and flushing associated with carcinoid syndrome by reducing the production of serotonin and other hormones secreted by the carcinoid tumors.

Pituitary Gland Tumors: Lanreotide can be used to treat certain types of pituitary gland tumors. It works by reducing the size of the tumor and decreasing the production of hormones.

Gigantism: This is a rare condition that causes abnormal growth in children, resulting from the pituitary gland producing too much growth hormone. Lanreotide helps in controlling the excessive production of growth hormone and thereby helps in managing the symptoms of gigantism.

Prevention of complications after pancreatic surgery: It is also used for the prevention of complications like pancreatic fistula after pancreatic surgery.

Management of symptoms in functional gastrointestinal disorders: Lanreotide helps in controlling the symptoms like diarrhea and flushing in functional gastrointestinal disorders.

It is important to note that Lanreotide might have side effects including but not limited to: abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, increased glucose levels, decreased thyroid function, injection site reactions, and gallstones. It should be administered under the guidance of a healthcare professional.