Octreotide exerts its effect in short bowel syndrome by which mechanism?

• A. Stimulates gastric acid production
• B. Increases intestinal motility
• C. Reduces GI secretions and slows jejunal transit
• D. Increases bile salt resorption

Answer: (C)

In short bowel syndrome, limiting the rapid loss of fluid and electrolytes and giving the remaining bowel more time to absorb nutrients is crucial. Octreotide acts as a somatostatin analog that dampens GI secretions and slows intestinal transit. By reducing secretions from the stomach, pancreas, and biliary system and by decreasing motility, it lengthens contact time of chyme with the remaining intestinal mucosa, which helps improve absorption and reduces high-volume stool output. This is why the mechanism is described as reducing GI secretions and slowing jejunal transit. The other options don’t fit because octreotide does not stimulate acid production, does not increase intestinal motility, and its primary impact isn’t on bile salt resorption.