Guide For Genotropin: Healthy Usage, Doses, Costs and Side Effects

What is Genotropin?

Genotropin is a brand name for synthetic human growth hormone (hGH). It’s used to treat growth hormone deficiencies in children and adults, helping with growth, muscle mass and overall development. It’s also sometimes used for conditions like Turner syndrome or chronic kidney disease in children.

Efficacy and Statistics of Genotropin

1. Efficacy in Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) in Children

• Study Population: 800+ children with GHD
• Height Velocity: Children treated with Genotropin experienced an average annual increase in height velocity of 8–10 cm/year, compared to untreated children who had an average increase of 3–4 cm/year.
• Final Adult Height: Children who began Genotropin treatment at a younger age showed a final adult height increase of 6–10 cm compared to untreated children.
• Growth Improvement: In one large multicenter study; 90% of children with severe GHD who were treated with Genotropin showed significant improvements in their growth compared to baseline measurements.
• Statistical Significance: The improvement in growth velocity was statistically significant (p<0.001) when comparing treated vs. untreated children.

2. Efficacy in Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) in Adults

• Study Population: 300+ adults with GHD
• Lean Body Mass: Adults receiving Genotropin showed a significant increase in lean body mass by about 2.5–3.5 kg after 6–12 months of treatment.
• Fat Mass Reduction: Average fat mass reduction was around 1.8–2.0 kg over the same period.
• Physical Function: Patients showed a 15–20% improvement in exercise capacity as measured by treadmill tests.
• Quality of Life: In a study; 70% of adults treated with Genotropin reported improved quality of life, including better mood, increased energy and enhanced physical performance.
• Statistical Significance: Lean body mass increase and fat mass reduction were statistically significant (p<0.01).

3. Turner Syndrome

• Study Population: 150+ children with Turner syndrome
• Height Velocity: Children treated with Genotropin achieved an average increase in height velocity of 7.8 cm/year during the first year of treatment, compared to 4.5 cm/year in the placebo group.
• Final Height Gain: After 4–6 years of treatment; the final height gain was reported as 4–7 cm in girls with Turner syndrome, according to the age treatment began (earlier initiation led to greater improvement).
• Final Adult Height: In one study; 50% of girls treated with Genotropin achieved an adult height within 2–3 cm of their target height (based on parental height), compared to only 25% in the untreated group.
• Statistical Significance: The improvement in final height was statistically significant (p<0.05) for patients who received Genotropin.

4. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in Children

• Study Population: 120+ children with CKD
• Height Velocity: Children with CKD who received Genotropin showed a 2.7 cm/year increase in height, compared to a 0.6 cm/year increase in those who didn’t receive the hormone.
• Final Height: Genotropin-treated children had an average final height increase of 3–5 cm compared to those who didn’t receive growth hormone therapy.
• Growth Improvement: In a study of 50 patients with CKD; 80% of those treated with Genotropin showed significant improvement in growth compared to baseline (p<0.01).
• Statistical Significance: The growth improvement and height increase were statistically significant, with a p-value of <0.05.

5. Sarcopenia in Older Adults (Elderly Patients)

• Study Population: 100+ elderly patients with sarcopenia
• Muscle Mass Gain: Elderly patients treated with Genotropin saw a 1.8–2.5 kg increase in lean body mass over 6–12 months.
• Strength and Physical Function: Participants also showed a 15–25% improvement in physical function as measured by strength tests such as grip strength and leg extension.
• Statistical Significance: The improvement in muscle mass and physical function was statistically significant (p<0.05) when compared to the placebo group.

Summary of Key Numbers

• Children with GHD: 8–10 cm/year increase in height velocity and 6–10 cm increase in final height.
• Adults with GHD: 2.5–3.5 kg increase in lean body mass, 1.8–2.0 kg reduction in fat mass, 15–20% improvement in exercise capacity.
• Turner Syndrome: 7.8 cm/year increase in height velocity and 4–7 cm gain in final height.
• CKD: 2.7 cm/year increase in height and 3–5 cm gain in final height.
• Sarcopenia: 1.8–2.5 kg increase in lean body mass and 15–25% improvement in strength and function.

What Are The Side Effects Of Genotropin?

1. Common Side Effects

• Injection Site Reactions:
  • Redness, swelling or irritation at the injection site.
  • Pain or discomfort at the site.
• Swelling:
  • Fluid retention cause to swelling in the hands, feet or joints (peripheral edema).
  • This ususally resolves after a few weeks of treatment.
• Joint Pain (Arthralgia):
  • Mild to moderate joint pain, especially in the hands and knees.
  • This is more common during the initial stages of treatment.
• Headaches:
  • Headaches could seen during the first few weeks of treatment but they tend to lessen over time.
• Muscle Pain (Myalgia):
  • Some patients may experience soreness or discomfort in the muscles.
• Tingling or Numbness:
  • This can occur in the skin, especially in the extremities (hands, fingers, feet).
• Increased Sweating:
  • Some patients report excessive sweating, particularly during sleep.

2. Serious Side Effects

• Insulin Resistance or Hyperglycemia:
  • Genotropin can effect glucose metabolism, cause to an increased risk of insulin resistance or high blood sugar (hyperglycemia).
  • In some cases; this can trigger or worsen diabetes in patients predisposed to it.
• Intracranial Hypertension:
  • Increased pressure in the brain can cause to symptoms like severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, vision changes and changes in mood or cognition.
  • This is a rare side effect but it can be serious and requires medical attention.
• Benign Intracranial Tumors:
  • Although rare; there have been cases of benign brain tumors (such as pituitary adenomas) in patients using growth hormone therapy, including Genotropin.
  • Regular monitoring of the brain via imaging may be recommended for certain patients.
• Sleep Apnea:
  • There is an increased risk of developing sleep apnea, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions such as obesity or respiratory issues.
• Edema and Cardiovascular Effects:
  • Severe fluid retention can effect the heart and lungs, lead to breathing difficulties or a feeling of tightness in the chest.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
  • Genotropin may cause compression of the median nerve in the wrist, leading to symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome (numbness, tingling, weakness in the hands).
• Hypothyroidism:
  • In some patients;, growth hormone treatment can effect thyroid function, cause to hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone levels).
  • Regular thyroid function tests may be recommended during treatment.

3. Less Common Side Effects

• Allergic Reactions:
  • In rare cases; patients may experience an allergic reaction to Genotropin, including rash, hives or difficulty breathing.
• Gynecomastia:
  • There have been reports of breast tissue enlargement in men (gynecomastia) during growth hormone therapy.
• Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE):
  • This condition; (where the growth plate in the hip slips) is rare but could be seen, especially in growing adolescents.
• Leukemia:
  • There have been isolated reports of an increased risk of leukemia in children receiving growth hormone therapy but no direct link has been conclusively established.

4. Management of Side Effects

• Mild to Moderate Symptoms (such as joint pain, swelling or headaches) are often temporary and can improve after a few weeks.
• Serious Side Effects: Immediate medical attention should be sought if symptoms like severe headache, vision changes, breathing difficulties or significant swelling occur.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring by a doctor is essential to track potential side effects. Especially related to glucose metabolism, thyroid function and intracranial pressure.

Risk Factors for Side Effects

• Pre-existing Diabetes: Patients with diabetes may need to adjust insulin dosages while on Genotropin.
• Obesity or Sleep Apnea: Those with obesity or sleep apnea may be more likely to develop cardiovascular or respiratory issues during treatment.
• History of Brain Tumors: Patients with a history of brain tumors should use Genotropin cautiously and undergo regular monitoring.

You can find details about another common growth hormone deficiency medication: Skytrofa below:

Skytrofa: A New Era in Growth Hormone Treatment for Children

What Are The Costs Of Genotropin?

United States:

• Price Range: The cost for Genotropin 0.2 mg subcutaneous powder for injection is around $236 for a supply of 7 powder for injection according to the pharmacy you visit.
• Savings Programs: Pfizer offers a copay program for eligible, commercially insured patients, potentially reducing out-of-pocket expenses. Patients may pay as low as $0 per prescription with annual savings up to $5,000.

Canada:

• Price Range: Specific pricing information for Genotropin in Canada is not readily available from the provided sources. But buying Genotropin online from Canadian pharmacies may offer competitive prices.
• Note: Prices can change and it’s essential to consult with local pharmacies or doctors for accurate and up-to-date pricing.

What Are The Dosages Of Genotropin?

1. Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) in Children

• Initial Dose: 0.16–0.24 mg/kg per week
• Administration: Subcutaneous injection, divided into 6–7 doses per week
• Dose Adjustment: Based on growth response and IGF-1 levels

2. Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) in Adults

• Initial Dose: 0.2–0.4 mg per day
• Maintenance Dose: 0.1–1.0 mg per day, adjusted based on IGF-1 levels, clinical response and side effects
• Elderly Patients: Start at a lower dose (0.1–0.2 mg/day) because of increased sensitivity

3. Turner Syndrome

• Recommended Dose: 0.33 mg/kg per week
• Administration: Given as daily injections or divided into 6 doses per week

4. Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS)

• Recommended Dose: 0.24 mg/kg per week
• Administration: Subcutaneous injection, divided into daily doses
• Special Considerations: Treatment should be discontinued in patients with severe respiratory issues or sleep apnea

5. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in Children

• Recommended Dose: 0.35 mg/kg per week
• Administration: Subcutaneous injection, given daily

6. Idiopathic Short Stature (ISS)

• Recommended Dose: Up to 0.47 mg/kg per week
• Administration: Divided into 6–7 doses per week
• Duration: Treatment continues until near-final adult height is reached

7. Small for Gestational Age (SGA) – Children with Growth Failure

• Recommended Dose: Up to 0.48 mg/kg per week
• Administration: Given as daily injections

8. HIV-Associated Wasting or Cachexia

• Initial Dose: 0.1 mg/kg per day
• Maximum Dose: Not exceeding 6 mg per day
• Duration: Based on clinical response with regular reassessment

Advices for Genotropin Users

1. Follow the Prescribed Dosage

• Always use the exact dose prescribed by your doctor.
• Do not increase or decrease the dose on your own, as improper use can lead to side effects.

2. Administer the Injection Correctly

• Injection Site: Genotropin is given as a subcutaneous injection (under the skin).
• Best Injection Areas: Rotate between the abdomen, thigh, upper arm or buttocks to prevent skin irritation.
• Injection Timing: Usually given in the evening to mimic natural growth hormone production.

3. Monitor for Side Effects

Be aware of common and serious side effects. Such as;

• Common Side Effects: Swelling, joint pain, headache, muscle pain and mild injection site reactions.
• Serious Side Effects: Signs of increased intracranial pressure (severe headache, vision changes), high blood sugar, carpal tunnel syndrome or severe swelling.
• Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms.

4. Regular Medical Check-Ups

• Your doctor will monitor your IGF-1 levels, blood sugar and thyroid function during treatment.
• Growth hormone can affect glucose metabolism, so diabetic patients should watch for blood sugar changes.
• Children on Genotropin need growth progress checks every few months.

5. Storage Instructions

• Before Mixing: Keep unopened Genotropin pens in the refrigerator (2°C – 8°C / 36°F – 46°F).
• After Mixing: Store in the fridge and use within 28 days.
• Avoid Freezing: Do not freeze the medication, as it will become ineffective.
• If traveling, use an insulated bag to keep Genotropin at the correct temperature.

6. Lifestyle and Nutrition Tips

• Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins and minerals to support growth and overall health.
• Exercise: Stay active but avoid excessive or high-impact activities that could strain joints.
• Sleep: Get enough sleep because growth hormone is naturally released during deep sleep.

7. Special Precautions

• Diabetes Patients: Monitor blood sugar levels closely. Growth hormone may increase insulin resistance.
• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor before using Genotropin.
• Cancer or Tumor History: Growth hormone therapy may not be suitable if you have a history of tumors or active cancer.

8. Do Not Share Medication

• Genotropin is prescribed for individual use only.
• Never share your pen with others because improper use can cause to serious health risks.

We wish a healthy and heappy life to you. Also you can find a helpful comparison of Growth Hormone Deficiency medications below:

Comparison of Growth Hormone Medications: Skytrofa, Genotropin, Saizen, Nutropin and Humatrope