What is the dosage and how should it be used?
Somatostatin or octreotide (synthetic substitute of somatostatin) is given as an injection under the skin or into a vein, and is preferably used in an intensive care setting.
A doctor or nurse will give you specific instructions on how and where to inject this medicine. Be sure to follow the instructions for the exact type of somatostatin your doctor has prescribed for you. Do not give yourself an injection if you do not understand these instructions. Call your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist for help.
DOSAGE
To treat upper GI (gastrointestinal) hemorrhage: The initial dose should be 250 mcg slow IV (over 1 min), and then immediately followed by a continuous infusion of 3 mg/12 hr (6 mg/24 hr) for 5 days.
To treat acute pancreatitis: Same as for GI bleeding except that it may be infused for 44 hours.
To treat enterocutaneous fistulas: Continuous infusions of 6 mg/24 hr (3 mg/12 hr), and the treatment should be maintained until complete closure of the fistula. The dose should then be reduced to 50 % over 48 hour period to avoid any rebound effect.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood or urine will need to be tested on a regular basis. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
Why is this medication prescribed?
What special precautions should I follow?
What should I do if I forget a dose?
What side effects can this medication cause?
What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
In case of an emergency/overdose