Humatrope (Somatropin)

Additional information

Humatrope (Somatropin)'s dosage depends on the condition and body weight. Your doctor or pharmacist may have suggested a schedule that is more appropriate for you. Somatropin is administered by injection only. It is usually injected subcutaneously (under the skin). It is important to rotate the site of injection (back of upper arm, abdomen, buttock, or thigh) in order to minimize the risk of fat wasting at the site of injection. Each cartridge is designed for use only with the appropriate corresponding Humatrope Pen. Reconstitute each cartridge using only the diluent syringe that accompanies the cartridge. Do not shake. The reconstituted solution should be clear. Inspect visually for particulate matter and discoloration. If the resulting solution is cloudy or contains particulate matter, do not use. Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed. If you forget a dose, contact your pharmacist.
 
WARNING: There may be an increased risk of tumor growth, both cancerous and non-cancerous, when Humatrope is used by survivors of childhood cancer. Somatropin may cause an increase in blood sugar levels and glucose tolerance may change, adjusting the dose of antidiabetic medications may be necessary. If you have uncontrolled hypothyroidism (low level of thyroid hormone), treatment with Somatropin may not work as well as it could. It may also trigger hypothyroidism (symptoms include unexplained weight gain, muscle aches or stiffness, constipation, dry skin or fatigue). In adults, Somatropin may cause fluid retention, which is generally transient and dose dependent.
 
In addition to its desired action, Humatrope (Somatropin) may cause some side effects, notably:
It may cause breast enlargement, carpal tunnel syndrome (pressure on a nerve in your wrist), joint or muscle pain.
It may cause swelling of hands, feet, or lower legs, redness, pain or swelling at site of injection, or unusual tiredness or weakness.
It may cause nausea, vomiting, flatulence (gas), stomach pain, or headache. 
 
Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to Somatropin or any component of the formulation. Do not use in pediatric patients with closed epiphyses (when the bones are no longer growing). Patients with acute critical illness due to increased complications/mortality following open heart or abdominal surgery, multiple accidental trauma, or acute respiratory failure (when the usual exchange between oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs does not occur) should not use Humatrope (Somatropin). Do not use in case of active malignancy (cancer), active proliferative or severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (the advanced form of diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes, caused by high blood sugar levels damaging the back of the eye (retina)). 
 
Taking Humatrope (Somatropin) during pregnancy may be harmful for the baby. Women of childbearing potential should use an effective contraceptive method. Pregnant women should not use this product. If you're planning a pregnancy or become pregnant or breastfeeding, contact your family doctor.
 
A treatment with Humatrope (Somatropin) requires regular monitoring by a doctor. Be sure to see your doctor for all regularly scheduled appointments.Humatrope (Somatropin)