Saizen (Somatropin)

Description

Saizen is a form of human growth hormone important for the growth of bones and muscles. Produced using recombinant DNA technology, it mirrors the growth hormone naturally created in the human body, Somatropin. Medical professionals administer this drug as an injection to treat growth failure in children and adults who lack natural growth hormone. Saizen supports skeletal growth, muscle development, and organ maintenance, addressing deficiencies to promote normal physical growth and development.

Directions

Saizen is administered subcutaneously, which means it's injected under the skin. Patients should always adhere to the guidance provided by their healthcare provider when using Saizen. The standard weekly dosage in children is typically 0.18 mg/kg of a patient's body weight. This dose should be distributed into equal amounts given on three alternate days, six times a week, or daily, as advised by a healthcare professional. For children, an adult must supervise the use of the Saizenprep® device.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Saizen is Somatropin.

Contraindications

Individuals should refrain from using this medication if they fall into any of the following categories:

• Existing malignancy: Growth hormone can stimulate the growth of tumors.
• Acute critical illness: Those who have recently had major surgery or life-threatening respiratory failure should avoid Somatropin.
• Diabetic retinopathy: Patients with active proliferative or severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy are also advised against its use.
• Allergy to growth hormone: Any individual with a known allergy to Somatropin or any of its excipients should not use Saizen.
• Closed epiphyses: Children or adolescents whose growth plates have fused should not receive growth hormone therapy.
• Prader-Willi syndrome: Those with Prader-Willi syndrome who are severely obese or have severe respiratory impairment must avoid Somatropin.

Cautions

• Prior to using Saizen, it's important to discuss the following with your healthcare provider:
• Your current health conditions
• Any allergies you may have
• The medications you are presently using
• Your status regarding pregnancy or breastfeeding

• For those recovering from major illnesses or surgeries, carefully assess the benefits versus risks of continuing Saizen treatment.
• Before starting Saizen, screen for symptoms like sleep apnea and breathing difficulties in children with Prader-Willi Syndrome. Discontinue the medication if these symptoms are observed.
• For those with a history of tumors, particularly childhood cancer survivors who had radiation to the head, vigilant monitoring for new growths or cancer recurrence is crucial due to an increased risk of secondary neoplasms.
• Saizen may impact blood sugar levels. Regular monitoring and potential adjustment of diabetes medications might be necessary.
• Be on the lookout for symptoms such as headaches or vision changes, which might indicate increased brain pressure. Treatment adjustments may be required if these symptoms develop.
• If signs of severe allergies occur, such as rashes, swelling, or difficulty breathing, immediate medical attention is needed.
• Symptoms like edema, joint pain, or carpal tunnel syndrome, especially in adults, might necessitate a dose reduction.
• Patients should be monitored for signs of worsening adrenal insufficiency and changes in thyroid function, with appropriate adjustments to treatment as needed.
• Watch for signs of hip or knee problems, such as a limp, which could indicate issues like slipped capital femoral epiphysis or an exacerbation of preexisting scoliosis.
• Severe abdominal pain should be taken seriously as it could indicate pancreatitis.
• Be aware of potential reactions to benzyl alcohol, a common preservative in some formulations.

Side Effects

The most common Saizen side effects include discomfort at the injection site, including pain, numbness, redness, and swelling. It can also lead to fluid retention and swelling in the limbs (peripheral edema), joint pain (arthralgia), muscle pain (myalgia), tingling sensations (paresthesia), and headaches. These side effects are usually mild but can vary in severity among individuals.

While the side effects of Saizen are typically manageable, it's important to monitor any persistent or worsening symptoms. Excessive swelling, severe pain at the injection site, or ongoing headaches should be promptly discussed with a healthcare provider. Regular check-ins with your doctor will help manage any adverse effects effectively and adjust treatment as needed to ensure both safety and efficacy.

References:

1. Saizen (Somatropin) Product Monograph. Rockland, MA: EMD Serono Inc.; 2017.
2. Saizen (Somatropin) Drug Label Information. Rockland, MA: EMD Serono Inc.; 2017.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....