Humatrope

Original Humatrope 72IU
(53 customer reviews)

$485

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Description

Humatrope is a brand of recombinant human growth hormone (hGH), which is used to treat various conditions related to growth hormone deficiency. The active ingredient in Humatrope is somatropin, a synthetic version of the growth hormone that is naturally produced by the pituitary gland. Growth hormone plays a key role in regulating growth, metabolism, and various bodily functions such as muscle and bone development.

General Information:

Uses of Humatrope:

Humatrope is prescribed for conditions where there is a deficiency or lack of growth hormone. Common uses include:

  1. Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) in Children and Adults:
    • In children, it’s often used to treat short stature due to insufficient growth hormone production, either due to idiopathic GHD or conditions like Turner syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, chronic kidney disease, or short stature associated with certain genetic conditions.
    • In adults, it may be prescribed for GHD caused by pituitary disorders or after pituitary surgery.
  2. Turner Syndrome:
    • A genetic disorder that affects females and results in short stature and other developmental issues. Humatrope can help improve growth and height in children with Turner syndrome.
  3. Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS):
    • A genetic disorder characterized by poor muscle tone, short stature, and insatiable appetite, leading to obesity. Humatrope can aid in growth and improve body composition.
  4. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in Children:
    • In cases where chronic kidney disease results in growth failure, Humatrope may help promote normal growth.
  5. Idiopathic Short Stature (ISS):
    • Humatrope is sometimes used off-label for children who are significantly shorter than their peers but do not have any underlying medical conditions causing the growth delay.
  6. HIV-related Wasting Syndrome:
    • Growth hormone can help improve muscle mass in people with HIV/AIDS who experience muscle wasting, although this is not a common or primary use.

How Humatrope Works:

Humatrope works by replacing the growth hormone that the body isn’t producing adequately. It promotes growth and development by stimulating the liver and other tissues to produce insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which in turn stimulates cell growth and metabolism. This has several effects, including:

  • Increasing height in children with growth hormone deficiency.
  • Promoting muscle and bone growth.
  • Helping in fat metabolism and maintaining healthy body composition.

Administration:

Humatrope is usually administered via subcutaneous injection (under the skin). The dosage and frequency depend on the individual’s age, weight, and condition being treated. It’s typically injected once a day, but your healthcare provider will determine the exact dosing regimen.

  • Preparation and Storage: Humatrope is available as a lyophilized powder that must be reconstituted with a provided diluent before injection. It should be stored in the refrigerator, and after reconstitution, it should be used within a specified time frame.

Side Effects:

Like all medications, Humatrope can have side effects. Some of the common side effects include:

  • Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, or pain)
  • Headaches
  • Swelling or edema (fluid retention)
  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Increased blood sugar levels (which may be problematic for people with diabetes)
  • Risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome or other joint-related issues
  • Rare but serious side effects could include an increased risk of certain cancers, especially in individuals with a history of malignancy.

Precautions and Contraindications:

  • Humatrope is not recommended for use in patients with active cancer, because it may stimulate growth of tumors.
  • It should be used cautiously in people with diabetes, as it can alter blood glucose levels.
  • Those with a history of growth hormone deficiency should be monitored closely while receiving treatment.
  • Patients with critical illness due to surgery, trauma, or respiratory failure should avoid using growth hormone.

Important Considerations:

  • Humatrope is typically part of a long-term treatment plan, especially in children, so regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is necessary to monitor progress and adjust dosages.
  • It is not a substitute for adequate nutrition or proper medical care for the conditions it is meant to treat.
  • While Humatrope is effective in treating growth hormone deficiency, it’s most beneficial when started early in life, particularly in children who have not reached their growth potential.

If you’re considering Humatrope for a treatment plan or need more personalized advice, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider who can guide you based on the individual’s needs and health history.