Lanreotide
Also known as: Somatuline, Lanreotide Acetate, BIM-23014
Lanreotide is a synthetic somatostatin analog that binds to somatostatin receptors to suppress growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) secretion. This long-acting peptide shows promise in research applications targeting neuroendocrine tumors, acromegaly, and growth hormone disorders.
Lanreotide is a 1096.3 g/mol research peptide. Lanreotide is a synthetic somatostatin analog that binds to somatostatin receptors to suppress growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) secretion. This long-acting peptide shows promise in research applications targeting neuroendocrine tumors, acromegaly, and growth hormone disorders.
Also called: Somatuline, Lanreotide Acetate, BIM-23014
1096.3 g/mol
Molecular Weight
Daltons
2
Strong Evidence
benefits
4
Studies Cited
peer-reviewed
60-120
Typical Dose
mg
Overview
Lanreotide represents a significant advancement in somatostatin analog research, offering sustained receptor binding and prolonged biological activity compared to native somatostatin. The peptide contains eight amino acids in a cyclic structure, with modifications that extend its half-life and enhance receptor selectivity. Research demonstrates that lanreotide binds with high affinity to somatostatin receptor subtypes 2 and 5, initiating a cascade of intracellular signaling that ultimately suppresses hormone secretion from various endocrine tissues. The peptide's unique pharmacokinetic profile allows for extended dosing intervals, making it valuable for long-term research protocols. Studies indicate lanreotide effectively reduces growth hormone secretion by 60-90% in research models, while also demonstrating antiproliferative effects on certain tumor cell lines. The compound's ability to modulate multiple endocrine pathways has generated interest in metabolic research, particularly regarding glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity.
Key Takeaways: Lanreotide
- Strongest evidence supports Lanreotide for growth hormone suppression and igf-1 reduction
- Research doses typically range from 60 to 120 mg via subcutaneous
- 2 benefits with strong evidence, 3 moderate, 1 preliminary
- Half-life: 23-30 days (depot formulation)
- 4 cited research studies in this guide
Mechanism of Action
Lanreotide binds to G-protein coupled somatostatin receptors (primarily SSTR2 and SSTR5) on target cells. This binding activates inhibitory G-proteins, reducing cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels and subsequently decreasing hormone synthesis and secretion. The peptide also modulates calcium channels and activates protein phosphatases, leading to reduced cellular proliferation and angiogenesis. In neuroendocrine cells, lanreotide inhibits the release of growth hormone, glucagon, insulin, and various gastrointestinal hormones through these receptor-mediated pathways.
Research Benefits
Lanreotide at a Glance
Lanreotide binds to G-protein coupled somatostatin receptors (primarily SSTR2 and SSTR5) on target cells.
Growth Hormone Suppression
Strong EvidenceLanreotide significantly reduces growth hormone secretion by binding to somatostatin receptors in the pituitary gland, with research showing 70-85% reduction in GH levels within hours of administration.
IGF-1 Reduction
Strong EvidenceThe peptide effectively lowers insulin-like growth factor-1 concentrations by suppressing growth hormone release, leading to normalized IGF-1 levels in research models of growth hormone excess.
Neuroendocrine Tumor Control
Moderate EvidenceLanreotide demonstrates antiproliferative effects on neuroendocrine tumor cells by reducing tumor-derived hormone secretion and inhibiting cellular growth pathways.
Metabolic Regulation
Moderate EvidenceResearch indicates lanreotide improves glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity through modulation of pancreatic hormone secretion and reduced growth hormone interference with glucose metabolism.
Gastrointestinal Hormone Modulation
Moderate EvidenceThe peptide suppresses secretion of various GI hormones including gastrin, cholecystokinin, and vasoactive intestinal peptide, potentially benefiting digestive disorder research.
Anti-angiogenic Effects
PreliminaryLanreotide inhibits blood vessel formation in tumor models by reducing VEGF expression and blocking endothelial cell proliferation through somatostatin receptor activation.
Research Dosing Protocols
Research Purposes Only: All content is for informational and research purposes only. This site does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide or supplement.
| Research Protocol | Dose Range | Route |
|---|---|---|
| Growth hormone suppression studies | 60–120 mg | subcutaneous |
| Neuroendocrine tumor research | 90–120 mg | deep subcutaneous |
| Metabolic studies | 60–90 mg | subcutaneous |
Frequency
Every 28 days (depot formulation)
Timing
Consistent timing recommended for steady-state levels
Cycle Length
3-6 months for research protocols
Research Notes
- 1Depot formulations provide sustained release over 4 weeks
- 2Injection site should be rotated to prevent lipodystrophy
- 3Room temperature before injection reduces discomfort
- 4Research doses based on published clinical studies
Reconstitution Guide
Standard Reconstitution
Vial Size
120 mg
Bacteriostatic Water
2 mL
Concentration
600 mcg
per 0.1 mL (10 units)
Step-by-Step Guide
Gather Materials
Lanreotide vial, bacteriostatic water, alcohol swabs, insulin syringes.
Equilibrate Temperature
Remove the vial from storage and allow it to reach room temperature (5-10 minutes).
Sanitize
Swab the rubber stopper of both the peptide vial and bacteriostatic water vial with alcohol.
Draw Water
Draw 2 mL of bacteriostatic water into a syringe.
Add Water to Vial
Insert the needle into the peptide vial and direct the water stream against the glass wall — not directly onto the powder.
Mix Gently
Swirl the vial gently until the powder is fully dissolved. Never shake. The solution should be clear and colorless.
Store Properly
Refrigerate at 2-8°C. 24 months unopened, use immediately once prepared.
Storage Temperature
2-8°C
Shelf Life
24 months unopened, use immediately once prepared
Important Notes
- •Pre-filled syringes available for depot formulations
- •Do not shake vigorously to avoid protein aggregation
- •Allow to reach room temperature before injection
- •Single-use formulations do not require reconstitution
Lanreotide Dosing Calculator
Calculate daily intake, cycle totals, and vials needed with pre-filled protocols →
Lanreotide Reconstitution Calculator
Calculate concentration, syringe units, and doses per vial with auto-filled values →
Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- !Injection site reactions (pain, induration, nodules)
- !Gastrointestinal disturbances (diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea)
- !Gallbladder abnormalities (sludge, stones)
- !Hyperglycemia or glucose intolerance
- !Bradycardia and cardiac conduction abnormalities
- !Hypothyroidism
- !Fatigue and weakness
- !Headache and dizziness
- !Hair loss (alopecia)
- !Arthralgia and myalgia
Potential Interactions
- ⚡Insulin and antidiabetic medications - may alter glucose control
- ⚡Cyclosporine - lanreotide may reduce cyclosporine absorption
- ⚡Beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers - increased risk of bradycardia
- ⚡Drugs metabolized by CYP3A4 - potential for altered metabolism
- ⚡Octreotide and other somatostatin analogs - additive effects
Important: Side effects and interactions listed here are compiled from published research and community reports. This is not a complete list. No formal drug interaction studies have been conducted for most research peptides. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Research Studies
The following studies are referenced in this profile. PubMed IDs are provided where available for independent verification.
Efficacy and safety of lanreotide in acromegaly: a systematic review
Comprehensive analysis of lanreotide efficacy in acromegaly treatment, showing biochemical control in 60-70% of patients with good tolerability profile.
Lanreotide in neuroendocrine tumors: a systematic review
Review of lanreotide's antiproliferative effects in neuroendocrine tumors, demonstrating progression-free survival benefits and symptom control.
Metabolic effects of somatostatin analogs: focus on lanreotide
Analysis of lanreotide's impact on glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, showing complex effects on metabolic parameters in research subjects.
Long-term safety of lanreotide autogel in patients with acromegaly
Long-term safety data from clinical studies showing manageable side effect profile over extended treatment periods.
Note: This is not an exhaustive list of all published research. Studies are selected for relevance and quality. Click PubMed IDs to verify sources independently. Inclusion does not imply endorsement of the peptide for any clinical use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lanreotide has a longer duration of action (28 days vs 4 weeks for long-acting octreotide) and different receptor binding profile, with higher affinity for SSTR5 receptors. Both suppress growth hormone but may have different efficacy in individual research applications.
Growth hormone suppression begins within 1-2 hours of injection, with maximum effects typically observed within 24-48 hours. Steady-state levels are achieved after 3-4 injections for depot formulations.
Yes, but requires careful monitoring as lanreotide can affect glucose homeostasis. It may improve insulin sensitivity in some models while potentially causing hyperglycemia in others, depending on the underlying metabolic state.
Deep subcutaneous injection into the superior external quadrant of the buttock is preferred for depot formulations. Injection sites should be rotated to prevent lipodystrophy and injection site reactions.
Store in refrigerator at 2-8°C. Do not freeze. Allow pre-filled syringes to reach room temperature before injection to reduce discomfort and improve administration.
The most frequent side effects include injection site reactions, gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea, abdominal pain), and gallbladder abnormalities. Most side effects are dose-dependent and manageable.
Yes, lanreotide's extended-release formulation makes it well-suited for long-term research protocols. The 28-day dosing interval provides consistent hormone suppression with good compliance in research settings.
Lanreotide can suppress TSH secretion and may lead to hypothyroidism in some research subjects. Regular monitoring of thyroid function is recommended during extended studies.
Research & Educational Use Only
All content is for informational and research purposes only. This site does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide or supplement.
The information presented here is compiled from published research studies and is intended for informational purposes only. Individual results may vary. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider.