TriangleFOR PATIENTS · SOURCE READING
Treatment for carcinoid syndrome may also be needed.
Source: Gastrointestinal Neuroendocrine Tumors Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version, National Cancer Institute.
Source updated: February 20, 2025 · Captured 2026-09-09.
Selected source text with whitespace normalised. This Triangle page is not an NCI PDQ summary. Independent clinical review is pending.
Context: Treatment Option Overview
Treatment of carcinoid syndrome may include:
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Hormone therapy with a somatostatin analog stops extra hormones from being made. Carcinoid syndrome is treated with octreotide or lanreotide to lessen flushing and diarrhea. Octreotide and lanreotide may also help slow tumor growth.
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Interferon therapy stimulates the body's immune system to work better and lessens flushing and diarrhea. Interferon may also help slow tumor growth.
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Taking medicine for diarrhea.
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Taking medicine for skin rashes.
Taking medicine to breathe easier.
Taking medicine before having anesthesia for a medical procedure.
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Other ways to help treat carcinoid syndrome include avoiding things that cause flushing or difficulty breathing such as alcohol, nuts, certain cheeses and foods with capsaicin, such as chili peppers. Avoiding stressful situations and certain types of physical activity can also help treat carcinoid syndrome.
For some patients with carcinoid heart syndrome, a heart valve replacement may be done.
Preserved source evidence · Independent clinical review pending · Not medical advice