Lanreotide

Lanreotide is a synthetic, long-acting analogue of somatostatin used in the medical management of acromegaly and certain neuroendocrine tumors. It is supplied as a deep-subcutaneous depot formulation (lanreotide autogel/depot) that releases the active peptide over a four-week period.

Lanreotide binds mainly to somatostatin receptor subtypes 2 and 5, inhibiting the secretion of growth hormone and many other hormones. Through this mechanism it reduces circulating levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in acromegaly and suppresses hormone secretion by neuroendocrine tumors, providing symptom control and potential antiproliferative effects.

Indications include adults with acromegaly not controlled by surgery or radiotherapy, and adults with metastatic or unresectable gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (well- to moderately differentiated) to control tumor-related symptoms and possibly slow progression. Dosing is individualized, but commonly 90 mg every 28 days for acromegaly and 120 mg every 28 days for neuroendocrine tumors, with adjustments based on response and tolerance. The product is given as a deep subcutaneous injection by a clinician, and therapy is typically long-term.

Common adverse effects include gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain), cholelithiasis or gallbladder sludge, fat malabsorption, injection-site reactions, and hyperglycemia or glucose intolerance in some patients. Rare effects include thyroid function changes and pancreatitis. Caution is advised in patients with diabetes or gall bladder disease; monitor glucose and gallbladder status during treatment.

Lanreotide is marketed under the brand Somatuline and developed for long-acting control of hormone-related symptoms in these conditions.