SOMATROPIN/RECOMBINANT HUMAN GROWTH HORMONE
Background and Date of Approval
Somatropin is a recombinant human growth hormone approved for medical use in 1987.
Uses
Somatropin Injection has been developed to treat growth failure in children due to deficiency of growth hormone, Prader Willi syndrome, Turnerâs syndrome, small for gestational age and short stature of unknown cause. It is also indicated for adults with growth hormone deficiency of childhood or adult onset.
How is it administered?
Somatropin Injection is available as prefilled syringe in the doses 4mg, 5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 4IU, 10IU, 16IU and 36IU. This injection is intended for administration through subcutaneous route and the dosing varies according to body weight and disease condition.
Side Effects
The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Somatropin Injection are swelling, arthralgia, upper respiratory tract infection, pain, edema, paraesthesia, headache, stiffness, tiredness, muscle pain and back pain. If you experience any anaphylactic reactions after taking this injection, report to your doctor immediately.
Warnings
Somatropin Injection is contraindicated in severe obesity, acute critical illness, upper airway obstruction, sleep apnea, cancer, diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance, hypersensitivity, hypothyroidism, hypoadrenalism, scoliosis and pancreatitis. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience breathlessness, rapid heartbeat, severe rash, swelling of arms or legs or any other anaphylactic reactions. During treatment with Somatropin injection, your doctor may periodically monitor your blood count, blood sugar, thyroid and other vital parameters to prevent serious complications. Report to your doctor if you have had a history of diabetes, heart problems, hypothyroidism, pancreatitis, cancer, obesity or acute illnesses.
Precautions
It is not known whether treatment with Somatropin Injection alters fertility or interferes with pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tell your healthcare provider before starting treatment with Somatropin Injection if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to have a baby.
Word of Advice
If you experience dizziness, tiredness, or any visual disturbances, avoid driving or operating machinery. Ensure adequate nutrition and fluid intake.
References
Pfizer Inc., US Food & Drug Administration, [Revised on Jan 2020] [Accessed on 20th Sep 2022], https://labeling.pfizer.com/showlabeling.aspx?id=577#S5.6 Mark E. Molitch and Bernard P. Schimmer, Goodman & Gilmanâs Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Introduction to Endocrinology: The Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis, 2018, 13th Edition, 771-786.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of growth hormone treatment?
Apart from treating growth hormone deficiency, treatment with growth hormone also helps improve muscle mass, exercise capacity, bone mineral density, quality of life and decreases fat mass.
Is it safe to undergo surgery while on treatment with Somatropin Injection?
It is not recommended to take Somatropin Injection at times of critical illness and surgeries as the chances of complications will be high. Inform your healthcare provider before receiving Somatropin Injection if you have undergone or about to undergo any surgery.
Does Somatropin Injection cause diabetes?
Clinical studies have reported new onset of diabetes among patients treated with Somatropin Injection.
How to store Somatropin Injection?
Store Somatropin Injection in a refrigerator without freezing. Discard unused contents of the injection after administration.
How is Somatropin Injection administered?
Somatropin Injection is injected into your skin subcutaneously. You will receive training from your healthcare provider on the correct method of using this injection. The dose depends on your body weight and medical condition.
What precautions should you follow during this treatment?
Avoid consuming carbonated beverages, fruit juices and alcohol while on treatment with Somatropin.
Who should not receive Somatropin injection?
Somatropin is not recommended for people with severe obesity, acute critical illness, upper airway obstruction, sleep apnea, cancer, diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance, hypersensitivity, hypothyroidism, hypoadrenalism, scoliosis and pancreatitis.