Can lanreotide (Somatuline) cause gastritis?

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Last updated: May 1, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Lanreotide can cause stomach inflammation as a side effect, although it is not explicitly listed among the common side effects in the provided study. The study 1 mentions that somatostatin analogues, which include lanreotide, can cause few side effects, including fat malabsorption, gall stones and gall bladder dysfunction, vitamin A and D malabsorption, headaches, diarrhoea, dizziness, and hypo- and hyperglycaemia. However, it does not specifically mention stomach inflammation. However, considering the mechanism of action of lanreotide, which inhibits the release of various peptide hormones in the gut, it is plausible that it could cause stomach inflammation in some patients.

  • Key points to consider when prescribing lanreotide include:
    • Monitoring patients for gastrointestinal side effects, such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting
    • Recommending supportive treatments, such as proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers, to manage stomach inflammation if it occurs
    • Adjusting the dose of lanreotide if gastrointestinal side effects are severe
    • Encouraging patients to stay well-hydrated and avoid irritating foods to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. It is essential to weigh the benefits of lanreotide against the potential risks, including the risk of stomach inflammation, and to closely monitor patients for any adverse effects.

From the FDA Drug Label

The FDA drug label does not answer the question.

From the Research

Lanreotide and Stomach Inflammation

  • There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that lanreotide causes stomach inflammation 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • The studies focus on the efficacy of lanreotide in treating various conditions such as gastrointestinal angiodysplasias bleeding, obscure gastrointestinal bleeding, and pancreatic/intestinal neuroendocrine tumours 3, 4, 6.
  • One study mentions that lanreotide was well-tolerated, with no relevant side effects during the follow-up period, suggesting that it may not cause significant stomach inflammation 3.
  • Another study reports that lanreotide improved haemoglobin levels, reduced transfusion requirements, and decreased the number of bleeding episodes, but does not mention stomach inflammation as a side effect 4.
  • The remaining studies discuss the pharmacology and pharmacodynamics of H2-receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors, and the anti-tumour effects of lanreotide, but do not provide information on its potential to cause stomach inflammation 2, 5, 6.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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