 Growth hormone (somatotropin) is an organic compound that stimulates the growth of bone, cartilage, and tissue. It also influences the metabolism (break down) of proteins, carbohydrates, and fat. Growth hormone is one of several hormones produced by the anterior (front) lobe of the pituitary gland, which is located at the base of the brain. Children need growth hormone to grow normally. Although an adult's bones have stopped growing lengthwise, adults continue to need growth hormone to maintain their bones, muscles, and body fat, as well as maintain their strength, energy, and quality of life. Various medical conditions occur when the body produces too much or too little growth hormone. These conditions are caused by gene mutations, pituitary gland damage (due to tumor, radiation, trauma, or surgery), or problems with the hypothalamus (which controls the pituitary gland). Growth hormone excess can lead to tall stature in children or enlarged features and thickened skin in adults. Growth hormone deficiency can lead to short stature in children or decreased muscle mass and weakness in adults. People with growth hormone excess or deficiency will typically be referred to a specialist called an endocrinologist. The endocrinologist will properly diagnose growth hormone levels in their patients and monitor their treatment accordingly. People with deficiencies requiring growth hormone treatment are prescribed a synthetic (man-made) medication. They work identical to the way the body's naturally occurring growth hormone works. These medications require prescriptions and are given by injection. Examples of medications to treat growth hormone deficiency include the following:
• somatropin (brand names Genotropin, Humatrope, Norditropin, Omnitrope, Saizen, Serostim, Tev-Tropin, Zorbitive, Nutropin and Nutropin AQ)
• somatrem (Protropin) Drug interaction studies with growth hormone have not yet been fully researched. However, careful monitoring should be done when taking growth hormone medications with sex steroids, anticonvulsants, corticosteroids, bupropion (Wellbutrin), and the live rotavirus vaccine. The doses of these medications may have to be altered when taken with growth hormone. This list is not all-inclusive, so be sure to talk to your doctor or pharmacist regarding any questions you may have about this medication and any other prescription, over-the-counter, or alternative medications you are currently taking. Sources:
Drug Facts and Comparisons, Facts & Comparisons, 2006.Drugs and Supplements, "Growth Hormone (Parenteral Route)." http://www.mayoclinic.com. Mayo Clinic Health. Last accessed 3/21/2007.
Hormonal Disorders, "Pituitary Gland Disorders." http://www.merck.com/mmhe. The Merck Manual of Medical Information, 2nd Home Edition, online version. Last accessed 3/21/2007.
Medical Encyclopedia. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus. Medline Plus. Last accessed 3/21/2007.
Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2006. Last accessed 3/21/2007.
This answer prepared 3/21/2007.
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