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A Potential Alternative to Injections
Living with acromegaly can be challenging, especially for those taking the somatostatin analog injections. Currently, the somatostatin analogs on the market are only available in an injectable form. Many people are uncomfortable with injections1 and may avoid or delay getting them2 . In addition, the Sandostatin® LAR® preparation requires a multi-step procedure that must be done by a medical professional immediately before administration. Aside from the discomfort of the injections, some patients have reported frustration with the logistics of acquiring, transporting and coordinating appointments to get their injections, including having less control over their personal health3.
More descriptions of challenges patients’ face in managing acromegaly, including how they deal with managing the multiple demands of their medication regime, can be found in the book, “Alone in My Universe” by Wayne Brown4.
Chiasma is currently developing Octreolin®(oral octreotide acetate), the first oral somatostatin analog for treating acromegaly and Pivotal studies (Phase 3) began enrollment during the fourth quarter of 2011.
1 Nir Y, Paz A, Cabo E, Potasman I. Fear of injections in young adults: prevalence and associations. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2003;68:341–4.
2 Wright S, Yelland M, Heathcote K, Ng S. Fear of needles: nature and prevalence in general practice. Australian Family Physician 2009:38:172-176.
3 Findings based on independent research conducted by Market Modelers, LLC. 2010.
4 Brown W. Alone in my universe. iUniverse, 2011.
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