Genotropin instructions for use, mode of release, composition and packaging

Genotropin is a practical, reusable injector containing a cartridge with two compartments. The first compartment contains somatropin, artificially synthesised and dried using freeze-drying technology without high temperatures. The second compartment contains a solvent used to prepare a working solution for injection from the somatropin powder. The mixing process takes place directly in the injector. The manufacturer offers two types of injector containing 5.3 and 12 mg of lyophilised somatropin respectively. They are distinguished by the colour of the injection button – blue for the smaller syringe, purple for the larger. In addition to somatropin, the lyophilisate contains the following ingredients

• mannitol ;
• glycine ;
• sodium dihydrophosphate ;
• sodium hydrophosphate.
• The solvent comprises :
• metacresol ;
• mannitol ;
• purified water.

Pharmacological effect

Somatotropin, the main active ingredient in the solution injected by the genotropin injector, is completely identical to the somatotropic hormone secreted by the human body. Its use accelerates the growth of skeletal bones and muscles and encourages the mobilisation of adipose tissue. Following the use of genotropin, most patients experience a reduction in the concentration of low-density lipoproteins, an increase in insulin levels and a restoration of fluid balance and bone structure. After genotropin injection, patients show improved memory and endurance.

The drug is injected subcutaneously and has a relatively high bioavailability – the body absorbs around 80% of the total amount injected. The maximum concentration of growth hormone in the blood is reached 3 to 6 hours after using the Genotropin injector. Intravenous administration is also possible in order to achieve more rapid absorption of the drug by the body, but it is not recommended to administer injections yourself in this way – intravenous administration of the drug must be carried out by a qualified healthcare professional.

Metabolism occurs in the kidneys and liver. The half-life of subcutaneous administration is 2 to 3 hours. Intravenous drug is eliminated more rapidly from the body. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacological parameters do not depend on the patient’s gender.

Indications

The use of the genotropin injector with the corresponding cartridge is recommended for the treatment of children and adults. The medicine is prescribed for adolescent patients in the following cases :

• insufficient production of somatotropic hormones by the body ;
• intrauterine developmental delay;
• Growth disorders associated with renal dysfunction and appropriate treatment.

Hereditary diseases leading to growth and development retardation. Genotropin Injector is prescribed for adult patients with somatropin deficiency.

Contraindications

The contraindications to the use of Genotropin Injector are :

• Hypersensitivity of the patient’s body to any of the components of the lyophilisate or solvent;
• Development of tumours of any type in the body;
• Critical condition of the patient due to severe trauma or surgery.

When treating a patient with Prader-Willi syndrome, which is characterised, among other things, by a tendency to obesity, particular attention should be paid to the patient’s weight. It is known that administration of Genotropin Injector to patients suffering from a severe form of obesity can be fatal. In patients suffering from the above-mentioned syndrome, the presence of respiratory problems is also a contraindication. Before using genotropin or other preparations containing somatropin, you should always consult a qualified doctor.