Drug Guide
Lanreotide Acetate
Classification
Therapeutic: Peptide hormone agent
Pharmacological: Somatostatin analog
FDA Approved Indications
- Treatment of acromegaly in adults
- Management of gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), including carcinoid tumors
Mechanism of Action
Lanreotide binds to somatostatin receptors, inhibiting the secretion of growth hormone and other peptides, thereby reducing tumor growth and symptom control in neuroendocrine tumors
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Initial dose typically 120 mg subcutaneously every 28 days, adjusted based on response
Pediatric: Not approved for pediatric use
Geriatric: No specific dosage adjustment required, but monitor closely
Renal Impairment: No specific adjustment needed
Hepatic Impairment: No specific adjustment needed
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Slow absorption from deep subcutaneous injection
Distribution: Widely distributed; high affinity for somatostatin receptors
Metabolism: Metabolized by proteolytic enzymes
Excretion: Primarily excreted in feces via biliary route
Half Life: Approximately 23 days
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to lanreotide or any component of the formulation
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with gallbladder disease
- Monitor glucose levels in diabetic patients
- Potential for QT prolongation; caution in patients with cardiac arrhythmias
- Pregnancy Category B
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Diarrhea (Common)
- Nausea (Common)
- Abdominal pain (Common)
- Injection site reactions (Common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Gallstones (Less common)
- Bradycardia (Less common)
- Hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia (Less common)
- Cardiac arrhythmias (Less common)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- CYP3A4 inhibitors and inducers may alter levels of lanreotide
Drug-Food Interactions
- No significant food interactions reported
Drug-Herb Interactions
- Limited data; caution advised
Nursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor blood glucose, gallbladder function, and injection site reactions
Diagnoses:
- Risk for hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia
- Risk for gallstones
- Impaired skin integrity at injection site
Implementation: Administer deep subcutaneous injections as prescribed, monitor for adverse effects, and educate patient on side effects
Evaluation: Assess symptom control, monitor laboratory values, and observe for adverse reactions
Patient/Family Teaching
- Report any new or worsening symptoms: abdominal pain, jaundice, or changes in blood sugar
- Inject medication exactly as instructed
- Maintain regular follow-up appointments
- Be aware of signs of gallstones and blood sugar abnormalities
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- None currently
Genetic Factors: None specific
Lab Test Interference: May affect levels of gallbladder ultrasound imaging
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia
Treatment: Supportive care; no specific antidote. Discontinue medication and provide symptomatic treatment
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze
Stability: Stable up to the expiration date when refrigerated