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Brand name: Octreotide (MaxRx) TM

Active ingredients: octreotide

What it is used for

For symptomatic control and reduction of growth hormone and IGF-1 plasma levels in patients with acromegaly, including those who are inadequately controlled by surgery, radiotherapy, or dopamine agonist treatment. Octreotide treatment is also indicated in acromegalic patients unfit or unwilling to undergo surgery, or in the interim period until radiotherapy becomes fully effective. For the relief of symptoms associated with the following functional tumours of the gastro-entero-pancreatic endocrine system: Carcinoid tumours with features of the carcinoid syndrome; Vasoactive intestinal peptide secreting tumours (VIPomas). Octreotide is not an antitumour therapy and is not curative in these patients. For reduction of the incidence of complications following pancreatic surgery.

How to take it

The way to take this medicine is: Subcutaneous. This medicine is injected, usually with a short needle or pen-like device, into the fat just beneath the skin.

  • Store at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius
  • Do not Freeze
  • Refrigerate
  • Protect from Light
  • Shelf lifetime is 5 Years.

You should seek medical advice in relation to medicines and use only as directed by a healthcare professional.

Always read the label. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional.

Visual appearance

Clear, colourless solution, free from visible particulates

Do I need a prescription?

This medicine is available from a pharmacist and requires a prescription. It is Schedule 4 : Prescription Only Medicine.

Pregnant or planning a pregnancy?

For the active ingredient octreotide

You should seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist about taking this medicine. They can help you balance the risks and the benefits of this medicine during pregnancy.

Download leaflet

For side effects, taking other medicines and more

Download consumer medicine information leaflet (pdf) from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) website

Reporting side effects

You can help ensure medicines are safe by reporting the side effects you experience.

You can report side effects to your doctor, or directly at www.tga.gov.au/reporting-problems

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