Lanreotide (Somatuline)
Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are a rare type of cancer that arise from cells that produce hormones in various organs of the body. Some NETs can secrete excess hormones, causing symptoms such as flushing, diarrhea, abdominal pain and wheezing. This condition is called carcinoid syndrome. NETs can also affect the growth of other organs, such as the intestine and pancreas.
Lanreotide is a synthetic version of a natural hormone called somatostatin, which regulates the production and release of many hormones in the body. Lanreotide works by binding to somatostatin receptors on the surface of NET cells, inhibiting their growth and hormone secretion. Lanreotide is also known as Somatuline, which is the brand name of the medication.
Lanreotide is administered as an injection under the skin or into the muscle by a healthcare provider. The injection is given once every 28 days, and it takes about 20 seconds to complete. The dose and frequency of lanreotide may vary depending on the type and severity of the NET, and the response to treatment.
Lanreotide has been shown to be effective in controlling the symptoms of carcinoid syndrome and slowing down the growth of some advanced NETs of the intestine and pancreas, when surgery is not possible or has not been successful. Lanreotide may also improve the quality of life and survival of patients with NETs.
Lanreotide may cause some side effects, such as gallstones, changes in blood sugar levels, slow heart rate, high blood pressure, injection site reactions, diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness and fatigue. Some of these side effects may be serious and require medical attention. Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they experience any of these side effects or have any allergies to lanreotide or other medications.
Lanreotide is one of the leading treatments for NETs worldwide. It is available in more than 70 countries, including UAE. UAE is a major exporter of lanreotide to other countries in the Middle East, Africa and Asia. UAE has a well-established healthcare system that provides access to lanreotide for eligible patients with NETs.
The following table shows the price of lanreotide (Somatuline) in different countries, based on the average cost per injection for a 120 mg dose. The prices are converted to US dollars for comparison purposes. The table also includes a reference link for each country where more information can be found.
Some of the top global brands that manufacture and distribute lanreotide are:
- Ipsen Pharma: The original developer and marketer of lanreotide (Somatuline) since 1997.
- Sun Pharmaceutical: The largest generic drug maker in India that acquired rights to sell lanreotide in India and other emerging markets in 2016.
- Teva Pharmaceutical: The largest generic drug maker in the world that acquired rights to sell lanreotide in Canada and Israel in 2017.
- Mylan: A global pharmaceutical company that acquired rights to sell lanreotide in Australia and New Zealand in 2018.
- Hikma Pharmaceuticals: A multinational pharmaceutical company that acquired rights to sell lanreotide in MENA region (Middle East and North Africa) in 2019.
Lanreotide (Somatuline) is a valuable treatment option for patients with NETs that can improve their symptoms, quality of life and survival. Lanreotide is widely available and affordable in many countries around the world, thanks to the efforts of various pharmaceutical companies that produce and export this medication.