Somatuline Side Effects: What to Expect and How to Manage Them

Key Takeaways:

• Somatuline Depot (lanreotide) is used to treat acromegaly, GEP-NETs, and carcinoid syndrome
• Common side effects include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and injection site reactions
• Serious side effects like gallstones, blood sugar changes, and heart rate changes require medical attention
• Most side effects are manageable with proper monitoring and communication with your healthcare team
• Copay assistance programs and patient savings cards can help make treatment more affordable

Somatuline Depot (lanreotide) is a life-changing medication for patients with acromegaly, gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs), and carcinoid syndrome. While this medication effectively manages hormone levels and slows tumor growth, understanding its potential side effects is essential for successful long-term treatment. This comprehensive guide will help you know what to expect, when to call your doctor, and how to manage side effects while staying on track with your therapy—including accessing copay assistance to make treatment affordable.

What Is Somatuline Depot and How Does It Work?

Somatuline Depot is a somatostatin analog—a synthetic version of somatostatin, a natural hormone your body produces. Somatostatin regulates many bodily processes by controlling the release of other hormones including growth hormone, insulin, and gastrointestinal hormones.

According to the National Cancer Institute, lanreotide works by mimicking somatostatin’s effects to reduce excessive hormone production and slow the growth of certain tumors. The medication is administered as a deep subcutaneous injection once every four weeks, allowing for convenient monthly treatment.

FDA-Approved Uses

Somatuline Depot is approved to treat:

• Acromegaly: A condition where the body produces too much growth hormone, typically caused by a pituitary tumor
• Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs): Tumors affecting the stomach, intestines, or pancreas
• Carcinoid syndrome: Symptoms caused by hormone-secreting neuroendocrine tumors

Common Somatuline Side Effects: What Most Patients Experience

Understanding which side effects are most common helps you prepare for treatment. The Mayo Clinic notes that most patients experience at least one side effect, though many are mild and manageable.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects

Diarrhea (26-37% of patients):

Diarrhea is one of the most frequently reported side effects of Somatuline Depot. This occurs because somatostatin analogs affect how your digestive system functions, particularly pancreatic enzyme secretion and intestinal motility.

Management tips:

• Stay well-hydrated—aim for 8-10 glasses of water daily
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day
• Avoid greasy, fatty, or spicy foods
• Talk to your doctor about anti-diarrheal medications if symptoms persist
• The good news: Diarrhea often improves within 1-4 days after each injection and may decrease with continued treatment

Abdominal pain (19-34% of patients):

Stomach discomfort, bloating, or cramping can occur after Somatuline injections. These symptoms are usually mild to moderate and temporary.

Management tips:

• Apply a heating pad to your abdomen for comfort
• Try over-the-counter antacids like Tums or milk of magnesia
• Eat bland foods like crackers, toast, or rice
• Avoid acidic foods like citrus, tomatoes, and vinegar

Nausea and vomiting (11-19% of patients):

Some patients experience nausea, especially during the first few days after injection.

Management tips:

• Eat small amounts of bland food before taking any oral medications
• Try ginger ale, ginger tea, or ginger candy
• Avoid strong food odors
• Ask your doctor about anti-nausea medications

Injection Site Reactions

Pain, redness, or swelling at injection site (9-15% of patients):

Local reactions where the needle enters the skin are common but usually resolve on their own. According to clinical studies, injection site reactions are more common when first starting treatment and decrease over time.

Management tips:

• Apply ice to the injection site before the injection to numb the area
• Use warm compresses after injection to reduce swelling
• Make sure your healthcare provider alternates between left and right buttock for each injection
• Report any persistent lumps, severe pain, or signs of infection to your doctor

Musculoskeletal Side Effects

Muscle pain and joint pain (10-19% of patients):

Generalized muscle aches and joint discomfort can occur with Somatuline treatment.

Management tips:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help
• Gentle stretching and light exercise
• Warm baths or heating pads
• Rest when needed

Serious Somatuline Side Effects Requiring Medical Attention

While most side effects are manageable, some require immediate medical attention. The FDA emphasizes the importance of reporting serious adverse reactions promptly.

Gallbladder Problems and Gallstones (12-20% of patients)

Gallstones (cholelithiasis) are one of the most significant side effects of Somatuline Depot. The medication reduces gallbladder motility, which can lead to gallstone formation. In clinical studies, 20% of acromegaly patients developed gallstones or gallbladder sludge during treatment.

Why this happens: Somatuline slows down gallbladder contractions, allowing bile to sit longer and form stones.

Warning signs to watch for:

• Sudden, severe pain in the upper right abdomen
• Pain between shoulder blades or in right shoulder
• Nausea and vomiting with abdominal pain
• Fever and chills
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Tea-colored urine or pale stools

What your doctor will do: Your healthcare provider may perform periodic gallbladder ultrasounds to monitor for gallstone formation. If complications develop, Somatuline may need to be temporarily discontinued while the gallstones are treated.

Blood Sugar Changes (Hyperglycemia and Hypoglycemia)

Somatuline affects insulin and glucagon secretion, which can cause both high and low blood sugar levels. This is especially important for patients with diabetes.

High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) symptoms:

• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
• Dry mouth
• Fruity-smelling breath
• Nausea and weakness
• Fatigue

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) symptoms:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Sweating
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Headache
• Blurred vision
• Shakiness or trembling
• Fast heartbeat
• Irritability or mood changes
• Hunger

Important monitoring: Your doctor will check your blood glucose levels when you start Somatuline and whenever your dose changes. If you have diabetes, your diabetes medications may need adjustment. The American Diabetes Association recommends working closely with your healthcare team to manage blood sugar during treatment.

Heart Rate Changes (Bradycardia)

Somatuline can slow your heart rate, a condition called bradycardia. In clinical studies, 23% of patients experienced heart rates below 60 beats per minute.

Warning signs:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fainting or near-fainting
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Confusion or memory problems
• Extreme tiredness or weakness

Who is at higher risk: Patients with existing heart conditions, those taking beta-blockers, or anyone with a history of bradycardia should be monitored extra carefully.

Thyroid Function Changes

Slight decreases in thyroid hormone levels can occur during Somatuline treatment, though clinical hypothyroidism is rare (less than 1% of patients).

Symptoms of low thyroid function:

• Unexplained weight gain
• Feeling cold all the time
• Severe constipation
• Extreme tiredness
• Dry skin and thinning hair
• Depression or mental fog
• Puffiness in the face

Monitoring: Your doctor will perform thyroid function tests as clinically indicated throughout your treatment.

Pancreatic Exocrine Insufficiency

Some patients develop difficulty digesting fats due to reduced pancreatic enzyme secretion.

Symptoms include:

• Steatorrhea (fatty, greasy stools)
• Stool discoloration
• Loose stools
• Abdominal bloating
• Unexplained weight loss

What helps: Your doctor may prescribe pancreatic enzyme supplements if this develops.

When to Call Your Doctor Immediately

Seek medical attention right away if you experience:

• Severe allergic reactions: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/tongue/throat
• Signs of gallbladder problems: severe abdominal pain, fever, jaundice
• Severe or persistent high or low blood sugar symptoms
• Chest pain, fainting, or severe dizziness
• Signs of pancreatitis: severe upper abdominal pain radiating to the back
• Any side effect that doesn’t improve or continues to worsen

How to Manage Side Effects Successfully

Communication is Key

Keep open communication with your healthcare team. Report any side effects at your monthly injection appointments, even if they seem minor. Your doctor can adjust your treatment plan or provide medications to manage symptoms.

Keep a Side Effect Journal

Track when side effects occur, their severity, and what helps. This information helps your doctor make informed treatment decisions and identifies patterns in your symptoms.

Attend All Monitoring Appointments

Regular blood tests and check-ups are essential for catching potential problems early. Don’t skip appointments even if you’re feeling well.

Medication Interactions

Tell your doctor about all medications you take, including:

• Diabetes medications (insulin, oral hypoglycemic agents)
• Heart rate medications (beta-blockers like metoprolol, atenolol, propranolol)
• Immunosuppressants (cyclosporine)
• Parkinson’s medications (bromocriptine)
• Any over-the-counter medications, vitamins, or supplements

Living Well on Somatuline: Lifestyle Tips

Dietary Considerations

Proper nutrition can help minimize gastrointestinal side effects:

• Eat small, frequent meals instead of large ones
• Choose low-fiber grains like white rice and plain pasta
• Select lean proteins like chicken, turkey, and fish
• Cook vegetables thoroughly rather than eating them raw
• Avoid trigger foods: spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine, high-fat foods
• Stay well-hydrated throughout the day

Managing Dizziness

If you experience dizziness:

• Stand up slowly from sitting or lying positions
• Avoid driving or operating machinery until symptoms resolve
• Stay hydrated
• Use handrails on stairs

Preparing for Your Monthly Injection

To make injection day easier:

• Schedule appointments consistently on the same day each month
• Plan lighter activities for the rest of injection day
• Have bland foods ready at home
• Keep anti-diarrheal and anti-nausea medications on hand (as prescribed)
• Bring your side effect journal to discuss with your provider

Understanding the Risk vs. Benefit

While this guide covers many potential side effects, it’s important to remember that:

• Not everyone experiences all these side effects
• Many side effects are mild and manageable
• Side effects often decrease over time as your body adjusts
• The benefits of controlling acromegaly, GEP-NETs, or carcinoid syndrome typically outweigh the risks
• Your healthcare team can help you manage side effects effectively

According to the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), successful long-term treatment depends on patient-provider partnership and proactive side effect management.

Affording Your Somatuline Treatment: Copay Assistance Programs

One concern that shouldn’t add to your treatment burden is cost. Somatuline Depot can be expensive, with some patients facing high out-of-pocket costs even with insurance. Fortunately, copay assistance programs and patient savings cards can significantly reduce your medication costs.

Manufacturer Copay Card Programs

The manufacturer of Somatuline Depot offers copay assistance through the IPSEN CARES program, which may help eligible patients reduce their out-of-pocket costs. Eligibility requirements and benefits vary, but many commercially insured patients can receive significant savings.

How QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy Can Help

At QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy, we understand that managing a complex condition is challenging enough without worrying about medication costs. Our team provides free assistance to help patients access copay cards, patient assistance programs, and manufacturer savings programs for Somatuline Depot and many other specialty medications.

Our services include:

• Free enrollment in copay assistance programs
• Checking your eligibility for patient savings cards
• Helping you navigate insurance authorization requirements
• Coordinating with your healthcare team for seamless medication delivery
• Ongoing support throughout your treatment journey

Don’t let medication costs prevent you from getting the treatment you need. Contact QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy at (917) 839-2525 or (800) 496-6111 to learn more about copay assistance for Somatuline Depot.

We also help patients access copay assistance for many other specialty medications. Visit our copay assistance page to see how we can help with your specific medication needs.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Somatuline

Come prepared to your appointments with questions like:

• What side effects are most common with my specific condition and dose?
• How will you monitor me for serious side effects?
• What symptoms require immediate medical attention?
• Can any of my other medications interact with Somatuline?
• What can I do to prevent gallstones during treatment?
• How often will I need blood work and gallbladder ultrasounds?
• Are there medications I can take to manage common side effects?
• What dietary changes should I make?
• Am I eligible for copay assistance programs?
• What should I do if I miss a scheduled injection?

Additional Resources for Somatuline Patients

For more information about Somatuline Depot and your condition:

• National Cancer Institute
• Pituitary Network Association (for acromegaly patients)
• Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
• American Diabetes Association (for blood sugar management)

Frequently Asked Questions About Somatuline Side Effects

How long do Somatuline side effects last?

Most common side effects like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal discomfort typically occur within the first few days after your monthly injection and improve within 1-4 days. Many patients find that side effects decrease in severity and frequency as their body adjusts to treatment over several months. Injection site reactions usually resolve within a few days to a week. However, some side effects like gallstones or thyroid changes may develop gradually over months of treatment and require ongoing monitoring by your healthcare provider.

Will Somatuline side effects get better over time?

Yes, for most patients. Clinical studies show that gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain often decrease in intensity with continued treatment. Injection site reactions are also more common when first starting therapy and tend to become less bothersome as treatment continues. Your body gradually adapts to the medication, making long-term treatment more tolerable. However, you should always report persistent or worsening side effects to your healthcare team.

How common are gallstones with Somatuline?

Gallstones are one of the most common serious side effects of Somatuline Depot. Clinical studies show that approximately 12-20% of patients develop gallstones during treatment, depending on the dose and duration of therapy. Among acromegaly patients specifically, about 20% experienced gallstones or gallbladder sludge. The risk increases with longer treatment duration. This is why your doctor may perform periodic gallbladder ultrasounds to monitor for stone formation before symptoms develop.

Does everyone get side effects from Somatuline?

No, not everyone experiences side effects from Somatuline Depot. While many patients have at least one side effect, the type and severity vary greatly from person to person. Some patients tolerate the medication very well with minimal discomfort, while others may experience more noticeable symptoms. Factors that influence your individual response include your overall health, other medications you take, the condition being treated, and your Somatuline dose. Working closely with your healthcare team helps minimize side effects through proper monitoring and management strategies.

Can Somatuline side effects be prevented?

While you cannot completely prevent all side effects, you can take steps to minimize their occurrence and severity. Stay well-hydrated by drinking 8-10 glasses of water daily. Follow dietary recommendations by avoiding trigger foods like spicy, fatty, and acidic foods. Attend all monitoring appointments so your doctor can detect potential problems early. Take any prescribed preventive medications as directed. Keep your healthcare team informed about new or worsening symptoms so they can adjust your treatment plan. Proper blood sugar monitoring is especially important if you have diabetes.

Is it normal to have diarrhea with Somatuline?

Yes, diarrhea is one of the most common side effects of Somatuline Depot, affecting 26-37% of patients. It occurs because somatostatin analogs affect digestive function, particularly pancreatic enzyme secretion and intestinal motility. The good news is that diarrhea typically improves within a few days after each injection and often becomes less severe with continued treatment. If diarrhea is severe, persistent, or interfering with your quality of life, talk to your doctor. They can prescribe anti-diarrheal medications or adjust your treatment plan.

Can I stop Somatuline if side effects are bad?

Never stop Somatuline without talking to your doctor first. While side effects can be uncomfortable, suddenly stopping treatment may cause your condition to worsen or your symptoms to return. Instead, contact your healthcare provider to discuss your concerns. They can often help manage side effects through medications, dietary changes, or dose adjustments. In some cases, such as severe gallstone complications, your doctor may temporarily discontinue Somatuline until the problem is resolved. Your treatment plan should always be modified under medical supervision.

What should I do if I miss a Somatuline injection?

If you miss your scheduled monthly injection, call your doctor or specialty pharmacy immediately for instructions. Depending on how much time has passed, your healthcare provider will either schedule you for the missed dose as soon as possible or adjust your schedule. Missing injections can reduce treatment effectiveness and may cause your symptoms to return. To prevent missed doses, mark your calendar with your injection dates, set phone reminders, and maintain consistent monthly appointments.

Does Somatuline cause weight gain or weight loss?

Weight changes can occur with Somatuline treatment, though they are not among the most common side effects. Some patients experience weight loss due to gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea, nausea, or malabsorption of dietary fats (steatorrhea). Others may gain weight if they develop hypothyroidism (low thyroid function) during treatment. Unexplained weight changes—either gain or loss—should be reported to your healthcare provider, as they may indicate a side effect that needs management.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Somatuline?

There are no specific warnings against alcohol consumption with Somatuline Depot. However, alcohol can worsen certain side effects like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal discomfort. Alcohol may also affect blood sugar levels, which is particularly important since Somatuline can cause both high and low blood sugar. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation and monitor for any worsening of side effects. Always discuss alcohol use with your healthcare provider, especially if you have diabetes or liver disease.

Will I need to take Somatuline forever?

For most patients, Somatuline is a long-term treatment. The duration depends on your specific condition and treatment goals. Patients with acromegaly typically continue Somatuline as long as it effectively controls growth hormone levels and symptoms. Those with GEP-NETs often remain on treatment as long as it slows tumor progression and is well-tolerated. Your doctor will regularly assess whether Somatuline continues to benefit you and whether the benefits outweigh any side effects you experience. Treatment decisions are individualized based on your response and overall health.

How much does Somatuline cost, and is copay assistance available?

Somatuline Depot is a specialty medication that can be expensive without insurance or copay assistance. Retail prices can range from several thousand dollars per injection. However, most patients don’t pay the full retail price. The manufacturer offers the IPSEN CARES copay assistance program for eligible commercially insured patients, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs. QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy provides free assistance to help you enroll in copay cards and patient assistance programs. Call us at (917) 839-2525 or (800) 496-6111 to learn about your options for making Somatuline treatment affordable.

Can I get pregnant while taking Somatuline?

Somatuline Depot may affect female fertility and reduce your ability to become pregnant. Additionally, it is not known whether Somatuline can harm an unborn baby, though animal studies have shown potential risks. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or think you might be pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. You should not breastfeed while receiving Somatuline Depot and for 6 months after your last dose, as it is unknown whether the medication passes into breast milk. Discuss your family planning goals with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.

What is the difference between Somatuline and Sandostatin?

Both Somatuline (lanreotide) and Sandostatin (octreotide) are somatostatin analogs used to treat similar conditions including acromegaly and neuroendocrine tumors. The main difference is the dosing schedule: Somatuline Depot is given once every 4 weeks as a deep subcutaneous injection, while Sandostatin LAR requires monthly intramuscular injections. The side effect profiles are similar for both medications, though individual patients may tolerate one better than the other. Your doctor will determine which medication is best for your specific situation based on effectiveness, tolerability, and convenience.

How do I know if Somatuline is working?

Your healthcare provider will monitor your treatment response through regular blood tests and symptom assessments. For acromegaly patients, blood tests measure growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels to determine if they have decreased to normal ranges. For GEP-NET patients, imaging studies track whether tumor growth has slowed. Carcinoid syndrome patients are monitored for reduced flushing and diarrhea episodes and decreased need for short-acting rescue medications. Improvement in your symptoms and positive lab results indicate that Somatuline is working effectively.

Conclusion: Managing Side Effects for Successful Treatment

Understanding Somatuline side effects empowers you to take an active role in your treatment. While side effects can be uncomfortable, most are manageable with proper monitoring, communication with your healthcare team, and proactive lifestyle adjustments. The key to successful long-term treatment is staying informed, reporting symptoms promptly, and working closely with your medical team.

Remember that serious side effects like gallstones, blood sugar changes, and heart rate issues require medical attention, but with proper monitoring, these can be detected and managed early. Don’t let concerns about side effects—or costs—prevent you from getting the treatment you need.

Need help managing your Somatuline treatment costs? Contact QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy today at (917) 839-2525 or (800) 496-6111 for free assistance with copay cards and patient assistance programs.

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Last Updated: November 4, 2025
Reviewed By: QuickRx Clinical Team