From the Guidelines
Lanreotide can affect appetite in some patients, commonly causing decreased appetite as a side effect, with approximately 7-14% of patients reporting this symptom during treatment. This is based on the mechanism of action of lanreotide, which mimics the action of somatostatin, a natural hormone that inhibits various gastrointestinal functions including the release of growth hormone, insulin, and digestive enzymes 1. The effects of lanreotide on appetite are likely due to its ability to slow digestive processes and alter gut hormone levels that regulate hunger.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the effect of lanreotide on appetite include:
- The incidence of decreased appetite as a side effect of lanreotide treatment, which is reported in approximately 7-14% of patients 1
- The mechanism of action of lanreotide, which involves mimicking the action of somatostatin to inhibit gastrointestinal functions and alter gut hormone levels 1
- The potential impact of lanreotide on nutritional status and quality of life, particularly in patients who experience significant appetite reduction 1
Patients typically receive lanreotide as a deep subcutaneous injection every 4 weeks, with doses ranging from 60 to 120 mg depending on their condition 1. If you experience significant appetite reduction while taking lanreotide, it's essential to monitor your weight and nutritional status, and discuss these effects with your healthcare provider. They may recommend dietary modifications or adjust your treatment plan if the appetite changes are severely impacting your quality of life or nutritional status.
In terms of managing appetite changes associated with lanreotide treatment, some options may include:
- Dietary modifications to ensure adequate nutrition and calorie intake 1
- Appetite stimulants, such as megestrol acetate or dronabinol, although the evidence for these agents is limited and inconsistent 1
- Other interventions, such as ghrelin analogues or taste modulators, which are still being studied and are not yet widely available 1
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Effects of Lanreotide on Appetite
- The provided studies do not directly address the effect of lanreotide on appetite.
- However, some studies mention the effects of lanreotide on gastrointestinal functions, which could be related to appetite 2, 3.
- Lanreotide has been shown to decrease gastric acid secretion, abolish bile salts and lipase responses to a meal, and increase the duodeno-caecal transit time, which could potentially affect nutrient absorption and appetite 2.
- Another study mentions that lanreotide can cause gastrointestinal disorders, including diarrhea, which could also impact appetite 3.
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest that lanreotide has a significant effect on appetite.
- Further research would be needed to determine the specific effects of lanreotide on appetite 4, 5, 6.