Somatostatin and octreotide in acute pancreatitis: the never-ending story

The role of somatostatin and octreotide in the treatment of acute pancreatitis has been studied in the last two decades. We describe the physiologic activities of somatostatin and octreotide and their action on pancreas secretion. Results of experimental studies on the action of somatostatin and octreotide in some models of acute pancreatitis are discussed as well as the results of clinical studies on the effects of the two drugs in human acute pancreatitis. On the basis of these data, we suggest that somatostatin and octreotide should not be recommended for the prevention and treatment of acute pancreatitis.