These effects on body composition were maintained when treatment was continued beyond six months. Bone mineral density declined after six months of treatment but returned to baseline values after 12 months. Both types of patients can realize physical improvements through therapy with Genotropin, while also having access to a range of patented, patient-friendly devices used to prepare and administer this medicine. For adults, Genotropin is available in two-chamber cartridges containing 5.8 mg and 13.8 mg. Treatment is administered six or seven times per week by a subcutaneous injection in the thigh, buttocks or abdomen.
Dosage is adjusted for the individual patient.
The product has been in use in Europe to treat adults since 1993 and is available in 28 countries worldwide, including Sweden, Germany, the United Kingdom and Austria. Genotropin for use in treating GHD in children was cleared for marketing in the U.S. in August 1995. In clinical trails, the most prevalent side effects in GHD adults treated with Genotropin were mild to moderate symptoms of fluid retention, including peripheral swelling, arthralgia, pain and stiffness of the extremities, peripheral edema, myalgia, paresthesia and hypoesthesia. Genotropin should not be used when there is any evidence of neoplastic activity, including intracranial lesions or tumors. Patients with diabetes or glucose intolerance would be monitored closely during treatment with Genotropin.