What is Humatrope Used For?
Humatrope is a brand name for a synthetic form of growth hormone also known as somatropin. It is used to treat growth hormone deficiencies in children and adults, helping to promote growth and development. It can also be used for conditions that cause muscle wasting or short stature. Humatrope is administered through injections.
Efficacy And Statistics Of Humatrope
1. Growth in Children with Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD)
- Study: A clinical trial on children with GHD showed an increase in height velocity after treatment with Humatrope.
- Results: Children experienced an average height increase of 8-10 cm per year during the first 2 years of treatment.
- Efficacy Rate: In a study of 1,100 children, 88% showed significant improvement in growth velocity after 12 months of treatment.
2. Adults with Growth Hormone Deficiency
- Study: A 12-month trial involving adults with GHD treated with Humatrope showed improvements in lean body mass and reduction in fat mass.
- Results: Patients saw an average increase in lean body mass by approximately 2.7 kg (5.9 lbs) and a decrease in fat mass by about 1.6 kg (3.5 lbs).
- Quality of Life: Over 60% of patients reported an improvement in physical well-being and overall quality of life after 6 months of treatment.
3. Treatment for Turner’s Syndrome
- Study: Humatrope was shown to improve height outcomes in children with Turner’s syndrome.
- Results: Height increased by 7-9 cm per year during treatment and many girls reached an adult height near the average for their age.
4. Adults with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS)
- Study: A study on adults with PWS indicated that Humatrope treatment led to improvements in muscle strength and decreased body fat percentage.
- Results: Adults treated with Humatrope showed a 10-15% increase in muscle mass and a significant reduction in body fat over the course of a year.
5. Muscle Mass and Fat Reduction in General Use
- Study: Humatrope was shown to prevent muscle wasting in patients with chronic conditions such as HIV.
- Results: Patients receiving Humatrope treatment had a 5-10% increase in lean body mass and a significant reduction in fat mass.
What Are The Side Effects Of Humatrope?
Common Side Effects (Mild & Temporary)
These side effects seen in 5-10% of users and are usually not serious;
- Injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling or itching)
- Headache
- Muscle or joint pain
- Mild swelling (edema), especially in the hands and feet
- Fatigue
- Nausea
Moderate Side Effects
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (numbness, tingling in the hands or wrists)
- Increased blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia); can lead to insulin resistance
- Hypothyroidism; some patients may need thyroid hormone supplementation
- Increased pressure in the brain (intracranial hypertension); symptoms include severe headaches, vision problems and nausea
Serious & Rare Side Effects (Require Immediate Medical Attention)
These side effects could be seen in less than 1% of users but are potentially dangerous;
- Severe allergic reactions (rash, breathing difficulties, swelling of the face or throat)
- Pancreatitis (severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting)
- Increased risk of tumors or cancer growth (rare but people with a history of tumors should be cautious)
- Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (hip joint disorder in children); symptoms include limping and hip pain
- Severe swelling and fluid retention; can lead to high blood pressure and heart problems
- Worsening of scoliosis in children with spinal curvature
Long-Term Risks
- Diabetes Risk; Long-term use can increase the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, especially in predisposed patients.
- Acromegaly (excessive bone growth); Rare but can occur with long-term overuse.
Who Should Avoid Humatrope?
Humatrope is not recommended for people with:
- Active cancer or tumors
- Severe obesity and respiratory issues (e.g., Prader-Willi syndrome with breathing problems)
- Severe diabetic complications
- Certain eye conditions caused by diabetes
What Are The Costs Of Humatrope?
United States:
- Humatrope 6 mg Injectable Kit: Prices range from about $582 to $981 per kit according to the pharmacy and location.
- Humatrope 12 mg Injectable Kit: About $1,952 per kit.
- Humatrope 24 mg Injectable Kit: About $3,895 per kit.
Some patient assistance programs may offer Humatrope at a reduced cost. For instance; eligible patients might obtain their prescription for a flat monthly fee of $49.
What Are The Dosages Of Humatrope?
Available Dosage Forms
Humatrope is supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in cartridge or vial form for subcutaneous injection.
- 6 mg (18 IU)
- 12 mg (36 IU)
- 24 mg (72 IU)
Dosage Guidelines by Condition
1. Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) in Children
- Dosage: 0.025 to 0.035 mg/kg per day
- Treatment is usually continued until growth plates close or until adult height is reached.
2. Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) in Adults
- Initial Dose: 0.15 to 0.3 mg per day
- Maintenance Dose: Adjusted based on IGF-1 levels and clinical response, usually up to 1 mg per day.
3. Turner Syndrome (TS)
- Dosage: 0.045 to 0.067 mg/kg per day
- Used to increase height in girls with Turner syndrome.
4. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in Children
- Dosage: 0.045 to 0.05 mg/kg per day
- Helps support growth before kidney transplantation.
5. Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS)
- Dosage: 0.24 mg/kg per week, divided into daily doses
- Used to improve growth, body composition and muscle mass.
6. Short Stature for Small for Gestational Age (SGA)
- Dosage: 0.035 mg/kg per day
- Treatment can continue until an acceptable height is reached.
7. Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency (AGHD)
- Dosage: 0.15 to 0.3 mg per day (starting dose)
- Adjusted gradually, with most patients needing 0.2 to 1.0 mg per day.
Dosing Adjustments
- Elderly patients may require lower doses because of increased sensitivity.
- Women on estrogen therapy may need higher doses.
- Patients with diabetes should be monitored as growth hormone can effect blood sugar levels.
Administration
- Injected subcutaneously (under the skin) once daily generally in the evening.
- Injection sites should be rotated to avoid irritation or tissue damage.
Advices For Humatrope Users
1. Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions
- Dosage & Schedule: Always take Humatrope exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Injection Site Rotation: Rotate injection sites (abdomen, thighs, buttocks) to avoid irritation or tissue damage.
2. Proper Storage & Handling
- Before Mixing: Store Humatrope cartridges or vials in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze.
- After Mixing: Use within 14-28 days, depending on the formulation. Follow the instructions on storage.
3. Monitor for Side Effects
- Common: Swelling, joint pain, mild headaches.
- Serious: Signs of high blood sugar (frequent urination, increased thirst), severe headaches, vision changes or difficulty breathing require immediate medical attention.
- Allergic Reactions: Stop using and seek emergency help if you experience rash, swelling or difficulty breathing.
4. Watch for Signs of Overdose
- Symptoms: Excessive growth, joint pain, swelling, insulin resistance.
- Solution: Contact your doctor immediately if you suspect an overdose.
5. Lifestyle Considerations
- Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet to support muscle growth and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
- Exercise: Regular activity can help maximize the benefits of Humatrope. Especially for muscle strength and fat reduction.
- Alcohol & Smoking: Avoid excessive alcohol or smoking because they can interfere with growth hormone function.
6. Special Precautions
- Diabetes & Insulin Resistance: Growth hormone can affect blood sugar levels; diabetics should monitor their blood glucose closely.
- Cancer History: People with a history of tumors or active cancer should not use Humatrope.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor before using Humatrope if you are pregnant or planning to conceive.
7. Regular Check-Ups
- Blood Tests: Your doctor will monitor IGF-1 levels, blood sugar and thyroid function.
- Bone Growth Monitoring: Especially important for children to avoid excessive bone growth or worsening scoliosis.
8. Be Patient
- Results Take Time: Growth and body composition changes may take months to become noticeable. Stick with the treatment as prescribed.
We wish a healthy and heappy life to you. Also you can find a helpful comparison of Growth Hormone Deficiency medications below:
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