Description
Serostim (somatropin) is an injectable medication given to increase lean body mass and body weight and improve physical endurance in HIV patients who have wasting or wasting syndrome.
Serostim is available in single-dose vials containing 5 mg or 6 mg. It is also available in multi-dose vials containing 4 mg.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C990H1528N262O300S7 |
License |
US FDA |
Bioavailability |
70-90% (subcutaneous) |
Legal status |
Prescription only (Rx) |
Chemical Name |
Somatropin |
Elimination half-life |
2-4 hours (subcutaneous) |
Dosage (Strength) |
4 mg, 5 mg, 6 mg, and 8 mg vials |
Pregnancy |
Consult a doctor |
Brands |
Serostim, Humatrope, Norditropin, Genotropin, others |
Protein binding |
~40% |
PubChem CID |
16132342 |
MedlinePlus |
a601020 |
ChEBI |
CHEBI:82626 |
ATC code |
H01AC01 |
DrugBank |
DB00052 |
KEGG |
D06086 |
Routes of administration |
Subcutaneous injection |
Directions
Use Serostim as directed by your doctor, who will determine an appropriate treatment regimen for you based on your weight.
A healthcare professional should teach you or a caregiver how to properly store, prepare, administer, and discard Serostim. The medication should be injected subcutaneously (underneath the skin) in the thigh, upper arm, abdomen, or buttock. Injection sites should be rotated with each injection in order to minimize the risk of local irritation.
Do not share Serostim products or needles with other people. Store away from children’s reach.
For further information regarding the use of Serostim, including storage details, refer to the medication guide that comes with your prescription.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Serostim is somatropin.
Contraindications
Patients who have any of the following conditions should not receive Serostim:
- Acute illness that is critical
- Cancer
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Allergy to somatropin or to any of the excipients in Serostim
Cautions
- Before you begin receiving Serostim injections, inform your doctor of:
- All the prescription and over-the-counter medications you take
- Your allergies
- Your current health problems and past medical history
- Your pregnancy or breastfeeding status
- Serostim contains the following warnings and precautions:
- Increased death in patients with acute illness that is critical after undergoing open heart surgery, abdominal surgery, multiple accidental trauma, or with acute respiratory failure
- Patients with HIV should continue maintenance therapy with antiretrovirals while being treated with Serostim
- Tumor progression, recurrence, or development
- Diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance; glucose levels should be periodically monitored, and dose adjustments of diabetes medications may be needed
- Increased pressure inside the skull that can usually be reversed after stopping the medication or reducing the dose
- Serious allergic reactions
- Fluid retention
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Pancreatitis
Side Effects
The most common Serostim side effects are tissue turgor (fluid retention, muscle pain, numbness) and musculoskeletal discomfort (joint pain, pain in extremities). However, other side effects may also occur.
Immediately call your doctor if you experience side effects that bother you or won’t go away.
Searching for a competitive Serostim price? You can buy Serostim right here!
Reference
Serostim. Rockland, MA: EMD Serono, Inc.; 2019.
About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)
Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 14604