Pasireotide activates a broad spectrum of somatostatin receptors, exhbiting a much higher binding affinity for somatostatin receptors 1, 3, and 5 than octreotide in vitro, as well as a comparable binding affinity for somatostatin receptor 2. The binding and activation of the somatostatin receptors causes inhibition of ACTH secretion and results in reduced cortisol secretion in Cushing's disease patients. Also this agent is more potent than somatostatin in inhibiting the release of human growth hormone (HGH), glucagon, and insulin.
Signifor® is an analogue of somatostatin that promotes reduced levels of cortisol secretion in Cushing's disease patients.
Metabolism is minimal.
The most common toxic effects observed are hyperglycemia, cholelithiasis, diarrhea, nausea, headache, abdominal pain, fatigue, and diabetes mellitus.