Omnitrope (generic name: somatropin) is a recombinant human growth hormone used to treat various
growth-related disorders. It mimics the natural growth hormone produced by the pituitary gland, promoting growth and development in children and maintaining tissue and organ health in adults.
Omnitrope is indicated for pediatric patients with growth failure due to inadequate secretion of an endogenous growth hormone or other more unusual conditions such as Prader-Willi syndrome and Turner syndrome. Other symptoms, such as being small for gestational age with failure to catch up by age two, and idiopathic short stature, are also candidates for growth hormone treatment.
In adults, it is prescribed for growth hormone deficiency, either continuing from childhood or acquired in adulthood. By supplementing growth hormone levels, Omnitrope aids in normalizing growth patterns and metabolic functions.
Dosage
The dosage of Omnitrope is individualized based on the patient’s condition, weight, and response to therapy. For pediatric patients, the typical dosage ranges from 0.16 to 0.24 mg/kg body weight per week, divided into daily subcutaneous injections. In adults, therapy often starts with a low dose, such as 0.2 mg/day, which may be adjusted based on clinical response and serum insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) levels.
If a dose is missed, it should be administered as soon as remembered unless it is close to the time for the next dose, in which case it should be skipped until the regular schedule. Double-dosing to make up for the missed dose is not recommended.
Storage
Omnitrope should be stored in a refrigerator at 2°-8°C (36°-46°F) and protected from light. It should not be kept in a freezer. After first use, the cartridge should remain in the pen and be kept refrigerated for not more than 28 days. Always inspect the solution before use; it should be clear and colorless. It should not be used if the solution is cloudy or contains particulate matter.Â
Common Questions About Omnitrope
How is Omnitrope administered?
As specified by the
FDA, Omnitrope is administered as a subcutaneous injection, typically once daily. The exact dosage is individualized based on the patient’s age, weight, and condition being treated. Healthcare professionals will provide instructions on its use, including how to inject the medication properly.
Is somatropin the same as human growth hormone?
Yes, somatropin is a synthetic form of human growth hormone, identical in structure and function to the naturally occurring hormone produced by the pituitary gland.
Can somatropin be used for anti-aging?
Somatropin is not approved for anti-aging purposes. While it may improve body composition, using it for non-FDA-approved indications can lead to serious health risks and is not recommended without medical supervision.
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.Â
Read the information leaflet that comes with the medication.
If a sudden allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) occurs after taking Omnitrope, with symptoms like swelling of the face, tongue, or throat making it difficult to breathe or swallow, or there is wheezing, hives, rash, blistering, or peeling of the skin, call a doctor or 911 right away, or go to an emergency room immediately.
Most people who use Omnitrope do not experience any adverse side effects. Doctors prescribe this medication because they assess the benefits of such treatment outweigh any likely unwanted effects.
Some of the side effects that have been reported include injection site reactions (such as pain, redness, or swelling), headache, muscle or joint pain, and fluid retention leading to swelling in the extremities.Â
Not all side effects are listed here. If these or other unlisted symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Omnitrope is FDA-approved for several conditions:
- Pediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD): Children with inadequate secretion of endogenous growth hormone may experience growth failure. Symptoms include short stature, delayed puberty, and increased fat mass. Omnitrope helps normalize growth patterns in these patients.
- Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS): A genetic disorder characterized by hypotonia, hyperphagia leading to obesity, and short stature. Omnitrope can improve growth and body composition in children with PWS.
- Turner Syndrome: A chromosomal disorder in females leading to short stature and ovarian insufficiency. Omnitrope promotes growth in affected individuals.
- Small for Gestational Age (SGA): Children born smaller than the typical weight or length for their gestational age who fail to catch up by age two may benefit from Omnitrope to promote growth.
- Idiopathic Short Stature (ISS): Children significantly shorter than their peers without a known cause may be treated with Omnitrope to aid in achieving a more typical height.
- Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD): Adults with GHD may experience decreased muscle mass, increased fat mass, and reduced energy levels. Omnitrope helps improve body composition and quality of life in these patients.
Adults with growth hormone deficiency may also benefit from Omnitrope to improve body composition and energy levels. For more details, refer to FDA Label for Omnitrope.