About somatostatin acetate
Peptide hormone and gastrointestinal inhibitor
Used for
- Controls bleeding from oesophageal varices, alongside standard emergency care.
- Treats severe acute bleeding from stomach or intestinal ulcers.
- May be used to reduce excessive hormone-related secretions in specialist care.
Usual adult dose
For acute bleeding, commonly 250 micrograms intravenously as a loading dose, then 250 micrograms per hour by infusion; protocols vary.
Common side effects
- Nausea or abdominal discomfort
- Flushing or dizziness
- Changes in blood glucose
- Slow heart rate
Important warnings
- Requires monitored hospital administration, especially for bleeding emergencies.
- Can alter blood sugar; glucose monitoring may be needed.
- Rapid intravenous administration can slow the heart or affect blood pressure.
- Use and dosing depend on the indication and local protocol.
Pregnancy
Use only when clearly necessary; pregnancy safety information is limited.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding safety is uncertain; specialist assessment is needed.
Interactions
- May affect insulin and medicines that lower blood sugar.
- May slow heart rate when combined with medicines that reduce heart rate.
- Can alter absorption of medicines taken by mouth.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.