Description
Vapreotide is a synthetic peptide analog of somatostatin that activates somatostatin 2 receptors and inhibits neurokinin 1 receptors. Vapreotide exhibits anti-inflammatory, antiviral, orexigenic, antihypertensive, and anticancer chemotherapeutic activities. In macrophages, vapreotide inhibits substance P-induced production of IL-8 and MCP-1, preventing HIV-1 infection. In the clinical treatment of prostate cancer, vapreotide decreases PSA and PAP levels and bone pain scores. Additionally, this compound decreases portal pressure and blood flow, improving bleeding control and mortality rates in clinical subjects with variceal bleeding. Vapreotide also increases food intake in vivo.