Octreotide is a man-made protein that is similar to a hormone in the body called somatostatin. Octreotide lowers many substances in the body such as insulin and glucagon (involved in regulating blood sugar), growth hormone, and chemicals that affect digestion. Octreotide is used to treat acromegaly. Octreotide is also used to reduce flushing episodes and watery diarrhea caused by cancerous tumors (carcinoid syndrome) or tumors called vasoactive intestinal peptide tumors (VIP adenomas). Octreotide may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Sandostatin is a drug that belongs to the drug class known as Somatostatin Analog. Sandostatin's generic name is Octreotide Acetate. Sandostatin is used to reduce flushing episodes and severe diarrhea. It is also used to treat certain kinds of tumors which are usually found in the pancreas and intestines.