Somatropin is a recombinant human growth hormone which was approved for its medical use in 1987.

Somatropin Injection has been developed to treat growth failure in children due to deficiency of growth hormone, Prader Willi syndrome, Turner’s syndrome, small for gestational age and short stature of unknown cause. It is also indicated for adults with growth hormone deficiency of childhood or adult onset.

Somatropin Injection is available as prefilled syringe in the doses 4mg, 5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 4IU, 10IU, 16IU and 36IU. This injection is intended for administration through subcutaneous route and the dosing varies according to body weight and disease condition.

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Somatropin Injection are swelling, arthralgia, upper respiratory tract infection, pain, edema, paraesthesia, headache, stiffness, tiredness, muscle pain and back pain. If you experience any anaphylactic reactions after taking this injection, report to your doctor immediately.

Somatropin Injection is contraindicated in severe obesity, acute critical illness, upper airway obstruction, sleep apnea, cancer, diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance, hypersensitivity, hypothyroidism, hypoadrenalism, scoliosis and pancreatitis. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience breathlessness, rapid heartbeat, severe rash, swelling of arms or legs or any other anaphylactic reactions. During treatment with Somatropin injection, your doctor may periodically monitor your blood count, blood sugar, thyroid and other vital parameters to prevent serious complications. Report to your doctor if you have had a history of diabetes, heart problems, hypothyroidism, pancreatitis, cancer, obesity or acute illnesses.

It is not known whether treatment with Somatropin Injection alters fertility or interferes with pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tell your healthcare provider before starting treatment with Somatropin Injection if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to have a baby.

If you experience dizziness, tiredness or any visual disturbances, you should avoid driving or handling machines. Maintain adequate nutrition and fluid intake

1. Pfizer Inc., US Food & Drug Administration, [Revised on Jan 2020] [Accessed on 20th Sep 2022], https://labeling.pfizer.com/showlabeling.aspx?id=577#S5.6
2. Mark E. Molitch and Bernard P. Schimmer, Goodman & Gilman’s Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Introduction to Endocrinology: The Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis, 2018, 13th Edition, 771-786.

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.