Humatrope: Uses, Side Effects, and More

Humatrope: Pros & Cons of Usage

Humatrope is a brand of human growth hormone (HGH) that can be very effective in treating “adult-onset” or “age-related” growth hormone deficiency in men and women. However, like any prescription medication or medical treatment, it has its benefits as well as risks. Let’s take a closer look at how to use this medication, who it is prescribed for, and the pros and cons of Humatrope.

What is Humatrope?

Humatrope, like all forms of growth hormone, is a brand name of the drug known as somatropin. Humatrope is the version of the drug made by Eli Lily and Company. Like all forms of somatropin, Humatrope is a recombinant form of human growth hormone designed to replicate the natural HGH produced by the pituitary gland.

By using recombinant DNA technology in its manufacturing process, recombinant growth hormone medications are virtually identical to the body’s naturally occurring HGH. It is used in adults to help manage symptoms of “adult-onset” or “age-related growth hormone deficiency, such as decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, and low energy levels. By increasing HGH levels in the bloodstream, Humatrope promotes various anabolic, or tissue-building, effects that can significantly enhance physical and mental health in adults with lower-than-normal growth hormone levels.

Humatrope is only available in the US with a legitimate prescription from a health care professional. Using this medication without the supervision of a team of healthcare professionals raises the risks of side effects or adverse effects considerably.

What is Humatrope Prescribed For?

Humatrope is typically prescribed for children with growth failure and who have been diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) or who have Turner Syndrome, idiopathic short stature, have SHOX deficiency, and/or were born smaller than normal for the number of weeks of pregnancy and do not catch up in height by 2 to 4 years of age. It is also indicated for conditions such as short bowel syndrome and the muscle wasting syndrome found in HIV patients.

Humatrope is also FDA-approved for the treatment of adult-onset growth hormone deficiency, which typically manifests as part of the natural aging process or due to other conditions affecting the pituitary gland. Patients with adult GHD often experience a variety of symptoms, including:

• Reduced muscle mass and strength
• Increased body fat, particularly around the abdomen
• Low energy levels and fatigue
• Reduced bone density, raising the risk of osteoporosis
• Impaired cognitive function and mood changes

Humatrope is prescribed to address these symptoms by increasing HGH levels in the blood via subcutaneous injection, ultimately aiming to restore balance in physiological processes affected by GHD. Humatrope can also improve lipid profiles, glucose tolerance, and even cardiovascular health for some patients, though these effects vary individually.

Humatrope Pens: Advantages Over Conventional Injections

One of the things that makes Humatrope one of the most popularly prescribed forms of HGH is its availability in convenient Humatrope Cartridge Pen Devices. The Humatrope Pen is a delivery system that uses an injection cartridge to simplify the injection process. Unlike traditional syringes, Humatrope Pens come preloaded and are equipped with dosage control features that ensure precise dosing.

The pens known as the “HumatroPen injection device” are available in 6 mg, 12 mg, and 24 mg cartridges. Key advantages of HumatroPen include:

1. Ease of Use: Humatrope Pens are user-friendly and are particularly helpful for patients who may be uncomfortable with conventional syringes.
2. Precision Dosing: The pen design allows for precise dose adjustments, making adhering to a prescribed regimen easy.
3. Reduced Pain and Discomfort: Humatrope Pens use smaller needles than traditional injections, resulting in less discomfort during administration.
4. Convenience and Portability: Compact and discreet, Humatrope Pens are ideal for on-the-go use, which can be beneficial for individuals with busy lifestyles.

The Humatrope Pen offers a streamlined experience that encourages patient compliance, making growth hormone therapy more accessible for those who may otherwise struggle with regular injections.

Humatrope Dosage* Information

The daily dosage of Humatrope varies by age, weight, and the condition it is being prescribed for. According to the Prescribing Information provided by the National Institutes for Health, Humatrope should be administered as a subcutaneous injection as follows:

For pediatric patients, the recommended weekly dosages in milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight (given in divided doses 6 to 7 times per week) are:

• Pediatric GH deficiency: 0.18 to 0.30 mg/kg/week
• Turner syndrome: Up to 0.375 mg/kg/week
• Idiopathic short stature: Up to 0.37 mg/kg/week
• SHOX deficiency: 0.35 mg/kg/week
• Small for gestational age: Up to 0.47 mg/kg/week

For adult Growth Hormone Deficiency: Either a non-weight-based or a weight-based dosing regimen may be followed, with doses adjusted based on treatment response and IGF-I concentrations.

• Non-weight-based dosing: A starting dose of approximately 0.2 mg/day (range, 0.15-0.30 mg/day) may be used without consideration of body weight and increased gradually every 1-2 months by increments of approximately 0.1-0.2 mg/day.
• Weight-based dosing: The recommended initial daily dose is not more than 0.006 mg/kg (6 μg/kg); the dose may be increased to a maximum of 0.0125 mg/kg (12.5 μg/kg) daily.

How to Administer Humatrope Injections

Treatment of growth hormone deficiency with Humatrope is administered via subcutaneous injection, typically in areas with a sufficient fatty layer, such as the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Patients are often taught how to self-inject, and the steps are as follows:

1. Prepare the Pen: Ensure the correct dose is set and the injection site is cleaned.
2. Insert the Needle: Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle into the skin, making sure it penetrates into the subcutaneous layer.
3. Deliver the Dose: Slowly press down on the injector to release the medication and ensure a full delivery.
4. Remove and Dispose: Carefully withdraw the needle and dispose of it safely.

Many patients find the administration of growth hormone injections quite manageable, especially with the guidance provided by your healthcare provider.

Only use Humatrope exactly as you are instructed to by your doctor or pharmacist. Humatrope is available in 6 mg, 12 mg, and 24 mg cartridges for use in the HumatroPen® injection device. You will be shown exactly how to administer your Humatrope injections.

• Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended
• Be aware of drug interactions and tell your doctor or prescriber about any other prescription drugs you are taking, as well as any over-the-counter medicines and herbal supplements.
• Follow the directions on your prescription label
• Use a different place on your body each time you give the injection
• Do not inject this medicine into skin or muscle that is red, sore, infected, or injured

To further assist with the Humatrope® injection process, the manufacturer has provided a complete set of user manuals for the pen and vial/syringe forms of Humatrope®. A multi-chapter how to use Humatrope® instructional video can also be accessed from this page of the manufacturer’s website.

The Benefits (Pros) of Humatrope

The primary benefits of Humatrope for adult-onset GHD patients include:

• Increased Muscle Mass and Strength: Regular use of HGH may help improve muscle mass, which can lead to better overall physical function.
• Reduced Fat Mass: Patients often see a reduction in body fat, especially in areas prone to age-related fat accumulation.
• Enhanced Glucose Control: Lowered blood sugar levels and a lowered risk of diabetes are not uncommon with HGH therapy. It can also counteract insulin sensitivity, which can further enhance weight loss.
• Improved Bone Density: Somatropin therapy like Humatrope can aid in improving bone density and reducing the risk of fractures associated with osteoporosis.
• Enhanced Energy Levels and Stamina: Many patients experience a boost in energy, which can positively impact day-to-day life and productivity.
• Cognitive and Mood Benefits: Humatrope has been reported to improve mood, focus, and cognitive function, although these effects are variable.

Risks and Side Effects of Humatrope (Cons)

While Humatrope offers numerous benefits, it also comes with potential risks and side effects. These are generally classified into common, rare, and serious adverse effects.

Common Side Effects

Common side effects of Humatrope are typically mild and manageable, especially at the start of therapy. These include:

• Joint pain
• Abdominal pain
• Fluid retention resulting in swelling in the hands and feet
• Knee pain
• Mild headaches
• Muscle pain

Rare or Serious Side Effects

In rare cases, Humatrope can lead to more severe complications. If any of the following symptoms occur, immediate medical attention is necessary:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Swelling of the brain (intracranial hypertension)
• Hair loss
• Severe respiratory infections have occurred.
• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) resulting in upper airway obstruction can occur. Tell your doctor about all known allergies.

Regular monitoring helps mitigate the risk of serious side effects, allowing healthcare providers to adjust dosages or discontinue treatment if needed.

Warnings and Contraindications

Growth hormone treatment like Humatrope is not suitable for everyone. Patients with certain conditions may be advised against using Humatrope, including those with:

• Active cancer or recent history of cancer
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Severe respiratory issues
• Critical illnesses due to complications after surgery or trauma

Pregnant or breastfeeding women are also advised against using Humatrope unless explicitly directed by a healthcare provider.

Tell your doctor about any recent surgeries you may have had, particularly heart surgery.

This medication is NOT indicated in children whose growth plates have already fused.

Do not use this medication if you have an active malignancy, as it could stimulate tumor growth in some cancers.

How to Buy Humatrope in the US

You can only legally buy Humatrope HGH in the US if you have a prescription from a licensed healthcare professional. It is not only illegal to buy Humatrope online or anywhere in the US without a doctor’s prescription, but doing so can have serious health risks. Using this medication without proper medical supervision can be hazardous, even potentially fatal.

However, you can buy Humatrope online if you have been diagnosed with GHD and have a legitimate prescription. We can take you through the process of having your HGH levels tested and obtaining a prescription. Once you have your prescription, you will be able to buy your prescribed dose of Humatrope from our Medications for Sale page.