Long-Term Efficacy and Safety of Somatropin for Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency

Authors: Svensson J.; Johannson G.

Source: Treatments in Endocrinology, Volume 2, Number 2, 2003 , pp. 109-120(12)

Buy & download fulltext article:

Price: $57.95 plus tax (Refund Policy)

Abstract:

The beneficial effects of somatropin (growth hormone [GH] replacement therapy) in adults are now established. Long-term somatropin administration in GH-deficient adults improves body composition, muscle strength, quality of life, bone mass and density, and lipoprotein pattern. The extent to which somatropin therapy can also reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in GH-deficient adults remains to be determined.

By starting with a low dose of somatropin, which is gradually increased based on clinical response (body composition, well-being, and serum insulin-like growth factor-1 concentration), effective treatment can be achieved with a minimum of fluid-related adverse effects. Thorough long-term monitoring of glucose metabolism, cardiovascular measurements, and underlying pituitary disease, is, however, mandatory.

Keywords: Somatropin, therapeutic use; Somatotropin deficiency, treatment; Growth hormone agonists, therapeutic use

Document Type: Review article

Affiliations: 1: Research Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden

Publication date: 2003-01-01