Vapreotide

Vapreotide is a synthetic somatostatin analog that is used in the management of acromegaly, a rare hormonal disorder that results from an excess of growth hormone in the body. It is also used to treat symptoms associated with metastatic carcinoid tumors and vasoactive intestinal peptide secreting tumors (VIPomas).

Pharmacology

Vapreotide, like natural somatostatin, inhibits the secretion of many hormones, including growth hormone, glucagon, insulin, and gastrin. It does this by binding to somatostatin receptors in the body, which are found in the pituitary gland, the pancreas, and certain parts of the stomach and intestines. By binding to these receptors, vapreotide inhibits the release of the aforementioned hormones, thereby helping to control symptoms in conditions where these hormones are overproduced.

Clinical Use

Vapreotide is used in the treatment of acromegaly, a condition characterized by an overproduction of growth hormone, usually due to a benign tumor in the pituitary gland. By inhibiting the release of growth hormone, vapreotide can help to control the symptoms of this condition, which include enlarged hands and feet, facial changes, and joint pain.

In addition, vapreotide is used to manage symptoms associated with metastatic carcinoid tumors and VIPomas. These are types of neuroendocrine tumors that can cause a variety of symptoms, including flushing, diarrhea, and wheezing, due to the overproduction of certain hormones. Vapreotide can help to control these symptoms by inhibiting the release of these hormones.

Side Effects

Like all medications, vapreotide can cause side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, pain at the injection site, gallstones, and changes in blood sugar levels. In rare cases, vapreotide can cause serious side effects, such as heart problems, liver problems, and allergic reactions.

See Also

• Somatostatin
• Acromegaly
• Carcinoid Syndrome
• VIPoma