Recombinant somatropin

Recombinant somatropin, commonly known as human growth hormone (hGH), is a synthetic version of the naturally occurring hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It plays a critical role in stimulating growth, cell reproduction, and cell regeneration in humans. Recombinant somatropin is used therapeutically in various conditions where growth hormone deficiency is present.

Indications

Growth disturbances caused by insufficient secretion of endogenous growth hormones or by gonadal dysgenesis (turner’s syndrome)

Dosage

Individual generally 0.5-0.7 i.u./kg body wt per week (or higher doses as judged) div. into 6-7 subcutaneous injection recommended. Turner’s syndrome 1 i.u./kg body wt recommended.

Contra-Indications

Recombinant somatropin is contraindicated in: Patients with active malignancy. Patients with acute critical illness due to complications following surgery, trauma, or acute respiratory failure. Patients with known hypersensitivity to somatropin or any of its excipients. Patients with active proliferative or severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy.

Special Precautions

Diabetes mellitus. In growth hormone deficiency secondary to treatment of malignant disease, pay attention to signs of relapseof malignancy.

Side Effects

Special precautions must be taken when using recombinant somatropin in patients with: Diabetes or pre-diabetes. Thyroid dysfunction. Intracranial hypertension. Prader-Willi syndrome (use with caution due to risk of sudden death in children with severe obesity and respiratory impairment). History of malignancy.

Drug Interactions

Common side effects of recombinant somatropin include: Injection site reactions (redness, pain, or swelling). Headache. Edema (swelling of the hands or feet). Muscle or joint pain. Hyperglycemia. Carpal tunnel syndrome in adults. Rare but serious side effects include intracranial hypertension, slipped capital femoral epiphysis, and increased risk of certain cancers.