Conclusion: In this study, octreotide was not found to be of benefit in the treatment of acute pancreatitis.
Background: Somatostatin and its long-acting analog octreotide have both been proposed for the treatment of patients with acute pancreatitis, but neither agent has been adequately assessed in patients with severe attacks.
Methods: Fifty-eight patients with moderate or severe acute pancreatitis who were admitted to hospitals within the west of Scotland over an 18-mo period were randomized to receive octreotide, 40 micrograms/h, by continuous i.v. infusion for 5 d, or placebo in addition to standard supportive therapy.
Results: There was no significant difference in the incidence of complications (54% octreotide group and 40% placebo group) or mortality (octreotide group 18%; placebo group 20%).