Description

Humatrope is a brand name for Somatropin, a form of human growth hormone produced through recombinant DNA technology. Physicians typically prescribe it to treat growth failure in children and adults who lack natural growth hormone, and it may also be used in cases of chronic kidney failure, Turner syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and short stature at birth with no catch-up growth, among other conditions. The drug mimics the effects of natural growth hormone, which includes the stimulation of bone and muscle growth, as well as sugar and fat metabolism. It's available as an injectable solution, indicating its administration is subcutaneous—that is, injected under the skin.

Directions

Humatrope must be administered subcutaneously, ensuring that injections are properly rotated to different sites to avoid tissue breakdown. Dosage varies based on the individual's needs, often initiated at a lower dose and adjusted over time. For children with growth deficiencies, starting doses may be as high as 0.067 mg/kg/day, with possible reductions to 0.033 mg/kg/day once significant growth is achieved. Adults often begin treatment at 0.006 mg/kg daily, which can be adjusted to a maximum of 0.0125 mg/kg daily in response to the patient's growth progress and any side effects.

It’s crucial to follow the Humatrope User Manual for detailed instructions on the preparation and delivery of the drug using the HumatroPen injection device. Patients should observe their response to the therapy and any adverse reactions, and consult their healthcare provider regularly to determine the appropriateness of the dosage in relation to their age, growth rate, and IGF-1 levels.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Humarope is Somatropin.

Contraindications

People with the following should avoid using Humatrope:

• Active malignancy (cancer): Individuals with active tumors or undergoing treatment for tumors should avoid Humatrope, as it can potentially stimulate growth.
• Diabetic retinopathy: Those with this eye condition caused by diabetes should not take Somatropin due to potential worsening of their condition.
• Acute critical illness: Patients recovering from major surgeries, severe trauma, or acute respiratory failure are contraindicated for this therapy.
• Allergic reactions: Avoid if there is a known hypersensitivity to Somatropin or any of its excipients.
• Prader-Willi syndrome: Patients with Prader-Willi syndrome who are severely obese or have severe respiratory impairment should not receive Somatropin treatment.
• Children with closed growth plates: Once a child's growth plates have closed, Somatropin should not be administered.

Cautions

• Prior to using Humatrope, it's important to discuss the following with your healthcare provider:
• Current health conditions
• Any allergies you may have
• All medications you are currently using
• Your status regarding pregnancy or breastfeeding

• Humatrope is not recommended for patients recovering from major surgeries or acute respiratory failure, as it has been linked to increased mortality in these groups.
• In children with Prader-Willi Syndrome, especially those who are severely obese or have breathing problems, Humatrope has been associated with sudden death. Regular monitoring for signs of upper airway obstruction and sleep apnea is critical.
• There is an increased risk of new or recurrent cancers, particularly in pediatric patients previously treated with radiation for brain tumors. Continuous monitoring for symptoms of new malignancies is essential.
• Humatrope may impair glucose tolerance, potentially leading to diabetes or worsening existing diabetes. Regular blood sugar monitoring is advised.
• Symptoms such as headaches, visual disturbances, and nausea may indicate raised brain pressure, which requires immediate medical evaluation.
• Patients with known allergies to growth hormone ingredients should avoid Humatrope, as it may cause serious allergic reactions.
• Treatment may result in fluid retention, presenting symptoms like swelling, joint or muscle pain, which are typically dose-dependent.
• Humatrope can reduce serum cortisol levels, necessitating adjustments in glucocorticoid replacement dosages.
• Monitoring thyroid function during treatment is important since Humatrope can cause hypothyroidism, especially in those predisposed such as Turner syndrome patients.
• Rapid growth in children can lead to issues like slipped capital femoral epiphysis or worsen existing scoliosis.
• Watch for symptoms like severe abdominal pain as Humatrope can increase the risk of developing pancreatitis.
• To avoid lipoatrophy, rotate injection sites regularly to prevent tissue breakdown.

Side Effects

Humatrope side effects include upper respiratory infections, fever, sore throat, and ear infections. Patients may also experience headaches, swelling (edema), joint pain, tingling, muscle pain, and flu-like symptoms. Notable side effects include carpal tunnel syndrome, which involves pain and numbness in the hand and arm, as well as hypothyroidism (reduced thyroid function), hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), and impaired glucose tolerance.

Humatrope can lead to serious complications such as intense joint and muscle pain, significant limb swelling, and severe hyperglycemia, which can progress to diabetes if not managed properly. Patients should closely monitor for symptoms such as unusual thirst or frequent urination and consult with their healthcare provider if these occur. Managing these side effects early is crucial to preventing more severe health issues. Regular medical check-ups will help monitor and adjust treatment to minimize risks.

References:

1. Humatrope (Somatropin) Product Monograph. Indianapolis, IN: Eli Lilly and Company; 2023.
2. Humatrope (Somatropin) Drug Label Information. Indianapolis, IN: Eli Lilly and Company; 2023.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

Dr. Sison graduated with honors from the University of Florida. He began his career in pharmacy counseling patients in a community setting and later served in hospitals and clinics. He has also worked in medication therapy management services. Read More....

Product Code : 9487