Growth Hormone Therapy

Growth Hormone Therapy for Children

Growth hormone therapy is a medical treatment that replaces or supplements the missing hormones in children who have growth hormone deficiency. It is used to stimulate growth in children whose growth has been hindered by the deficiency. Growth hormone therapy is used to correct short stature associated with certain medical conditions, including Turner syndrome, chronic kidney disease, Prader-Willi syndrome, and other genetic or idiopathic causes.

Growth hormone therapy is usually administered by subcutaneous injection, with the dose depending on the patient's age, weight, and growth rate. Growth hormone therapy may be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as testosterone replacement, growth factor therapy, or insulin-like growth factor-1 treatment. Long-term effects may include increased muscle mass, improved bone density, improved height, and a lower risk of disease.

Growth hormone therapy is considered safe when administered according to prescribed guidelines, and patients typically experience no serious side effects. Common side effects include injection site pain, headache, nausea, and fluid retention. Rare, more serious side effects may include inflammation of the joints, diabetes, and enlargement of the heart.

Benefits of Growth Hormone Therapy

• Reduces body fat and increases lean muscle mass
• Improves bone density
• Increases energy levels
• Improves sleep quality
• Improves mood and self-esteem in children
• Reduces risk of disease
• Improves height and overall growth