Somatropin is a synthetic form of human growth hormone (HGH). It belongs to a class of medicines called growth hormone replacements. It is used to help children and adults who do not make enough natural growth hormone. It is also used in certain conditions, such as growth failure in children with Turner syndrome, chronic kidney disease, Prader–Willi syndrome, or those born small for gestational age who fail to catch up in growth. In adults, it is used for growth hormone deficiency and sometimes to manage muscle loss related to HIV. Somatropin helps support healthy growth, metabolism, and body composition. Common side effects may include mild swelling, joint or muscle pain, or headaches. These usually improve with time. You should avoid alcohol or excessive sedatives, as these can worsen dizziness or blood sugar changes. People with severe breathing problems, active cancer, or certain eye problems related to diabetes should not use Somatropin unless specifically directed by a doctor.

Uses

Growth failure in children due to insufficient natural growth hormone (endogenous growth hormone deficiency).
Short stature in children associated with Turner syndrome.
Children born small for gestational age (SGA) who have not shown adequate “catch-up” growth by the usual age (e.g., age 2–4 years).
Short stature in children with Noonan syndrome.

Contraindications

When should one not use Somatropin

If you have an active cancer or tumor anywhere in your body. If you have signs of diabetic eye disease (proliferative or severe non-proliferative retinopathy). If you are recovering from major surgery, open-heart surgery, abdominal surgery, or have acute respiratory failure. If you have a known allergy to Somatropin. If you have a closed epiphysis (your bones have stopped growing), Somatropin should not be used for growth promotion.