Octreotide (By mouth)

Octreotide Acetate (ok-TREE-oh-tide AS-e-tate)

Treats acromegaly (a growth hormone disorder).

Brand Name(s):

Mycapssa

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to octreotide.

How to Use This Medicine:

Delayed Release Capsule

  • Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
  • It is best to take this medicine on an empty stomach. Take this medicine with a glass of water at least 1 hour before or at least 2 hours after a meal.
  • Swallow the delayed-release capsule whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.
  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
  • Store the unopened medicine in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. You may keep the opened medicine at room temperature for up to 1 month. Throw away any unused medicine after 1 month.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Some medicines can affect how octreotide works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
    • Bromocriptine, cyclosporine, digoxin, levonorgestrel, quinidine
    • Blood pressure medicine (including lisinopril, beta blockers, CCBs)
    • Insulin or oral diabetes medicine
    • Stomach medicine (including antacids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors)

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, gallbladder disease, heart rhythm problems, diabetes, thyroid problems, or vitamin B12 deficiency.
  • This medicine may cause the following problems:
    • Gallstones, which may lead to swelling of the gallbladder, bile ducts, or pancreas
    • Changes in blood sugar level
    • Thyroid problems, including hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland)
    • Heart rhythm problems (including QT prolongation)
    • Problems with absorbing dietary fats and steatorrhea (fatty stools)
  • This medicine may improve fertility in some women, which could increase the risk for unplanned pregnancies. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
  • Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.
  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
  • Diarrhea, fat in stools, stomach cramps, weight loss
  • Increased thirst, hunger, or urination
  • Severe stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, yellow skin or eyes, stomach fullness, fever
  • Shaking, trembling, sweating, fast or pounding heartbeat, fainting or lightheadedness, confusion
  • Slow heartbeat, weight gain, muscle cramps or stiffness, feeling cold, unusual tiredness or weakness
  • Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Back or joint pain
  • Diarrhea, stomach discomfort
  • Headache, stuffy or runny nose

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088


Last Updated: 9/6/2024

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