Nutropin® (somatropin [rDNA origin])

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Human growth hormone (GH) is an important hormone during childhood, as well as throughout adulthood. Growth hormone is produced by the pituitary gland, known as the "master gland" because it secretes many hormones that control the actions of other glands.

Growth disorders in children or adults can affect growth development, metabolism, bone and tissue growth, and other body processes regulated by growth hormone. There are several diseases associated with growth hormone deficiency.

Learn more about growth hormone therapy.

Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a pituitary disorder resulting in short stature and other physical ailments. GHD occurs when the production of growth hormone, secreted by the pituitary gland, is disrupted. Since growth hormone plays a critical role in stimulating body growth and development and is involved in the production of muscle protein and the breakdown of fats, a decrease in the hormone affects several body processes.

Turner syndrome is a chromosomal disorder caused by the absence of all or part of one of the X chromosomes. It affects females exclusively and is characterized, in part, by short stature and ovarian dysfunction.

Chronic renal insufficiency (CRI) is a gradual and progressive loss of the ability of the kidneys to excrete wastes, concentrate urine, and conserve electrolytes. Kidney transplants can help a child start growing normally again, but most children do not make up the growth lost prior to transplantation.

Idiopathic short stature is defined as height more than two standard deviations below average for age and sex. It is associated with growth rates unlikely to reach adult height in the normal range.

Small for gestational age (SGA) is a term used to describe a baby who is smaller than normal for the number of weeks of pregnancy.

Prader-Willi Syndrome is a chromosomal disorder characterized by infantile hypotonia, hypogonadism, and obesity.

AIDS wasting/cachexia is a metabolic disorder that causes the body to consume vital muscle and organ tissue (lean body mass) for energy instead of primarily relying on the body's stored fat.

Referral Form – Pediatric Indication Adult Indication

Other Resources:

The Hormone Foundation

Human Growth Foundation

Magic Foundation

Turner Syndrome Society