Growth hormone injections for children the appropriate age and the most important medical advice
My Child Is Short Compared to His Friends... What Should I Do? Is There an Effective Solution?
These are the questions every parent asks when they feel their child's growth isn't progressing as it should. This is where growth hormone injections come in as one of the most popular medical solutions discussed by many, but at the same time, it comes with many big questions! Do they actually help the child grow taller? Or do they have serious side effects? And when is the right time to start them?
In this article from Dely Medical, we will reveal the real benefits of growth hormone injections for children, warn you about potential risks you might not be aware of, and help you understand the best age to start treatment so that the results are effective and safe.
Keep reading until the end to make an informed decision and protect your child's health and future well-being.
Do Growth Hormone Injections Help Increase Height?
Yes, growth hormone injections are used to treat growth deficiencies in children and can help increase height. Normally, a child grows at a rate of 6 centimeters per year. However, if it's noticed that the child's growth is slower than usual, it is recommended to consult a specialized doctor.
When treatment with growth hormone injections begins, a child may experience an increase in height by up to 10 centimeters per year, especially in the first years of treatment.
As for adults, there is insufficient medical evidence to confirm the effectiveness of these injections in increasing height after puberty because bone growth stops for most people after that stage.
How Are Growth Hormone Injections Administered?
These injections are given subcutaneously, usually in the abdomen or thigh area. These injections do not require hospitalization and can be administered at home after the parents are trained on the correct method of use.
It is important for the doctor or pharmacist to explain how to administer the injections to avoid bruising or any skin problems at the injection site.
Are Growth Hormone Injections Beneficial for Older Adults?
Some believe that these injections help older adults regain youth and energy, but this is not scientifically proven.
In fact, these injections can cause serious health complications in older adults, especially if they suffer from heart disease or respiratory problems. Therefore, their use is not recommended unless under strict medical supervision and for specific cases, such as a pituitary gland disorder.
How Much Do Growth Hormone Injections Cost?
The cost of growth hormone injections varies depending on the country and the manufacturer, but generally, the monthly price ranges from $1,000 to $5,000.
These injections might be offered at lower prices online, but it is advisable not to purchase them from unreliable sources to avoid fraud or counterfeit products, or ineffective results.
What Are Growth Hormone Injections Called?
The most common scientific name is Somatropin, which is a synthetic version of the natural growth hormone produced by the pituitary gland. This hormone is used to stimulate growth in children with a deficiency in this hormone.
Are Growth Hormone Injections Helpful for Athletes?
There is a belief that growth hormone injections can enhance athletic performance and increase muscle mass. However, to date, their use for this purpose has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Using these injections without medical supervision can expose athletes to health risks, so their use is only recommended in certain medical cases.
Why Are Growth Hormone Injections Used?
This type of injection is used when a child suffers from a deficiency in natural growth hormone, either due to a pituitary gland problem or a genetic disorder.
These injections serve as an alternative treatment to compensate for the lack of natural hormone, helping to improve height and promote healthy, proper growth.
What Are the Causes of Pituitary Gland Dysfunction?
Pituitary gland dysfunction can be caused by genetic factors that affect the body's ability to produce growth hormone. It can also occur due to:
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Head injuries that affect the brain and endocrine glands.
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Radiation therapy, especially when treating brain tumors.
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Certain medications used in cancer treatment may weaken the pituitary gland and affect hormone production.
When this dysfunction occurs, growth hormone production decreases, leading to growth delays and short stature in children.
Who Are the Children Most Likely to Use Growth Hormone Injections?
There are several medical conditions that may require a child to use synthetic growth hormone, and here are the most prominent groups:
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Children with Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD)
Description: Their bodies do not produce enough growth hormone due to issues with the pituitary gland or genetic causes.
Symptoms: Short stature, slow growth compared to peers, delayed physical development.
Treatment: The child is given growth hormone injections to compensate for the deficiency and stimulate natural growth. -
Children with Idiopathic Short Stature
Description: The child appears shorter than the average, but there is no detected growth hormone deficiency.
Treatment: The doctor may prescribe growth hormone injections to stimulate height if growth indicators continue to decline. -
Children with Turner Syndrome
Description: A genetic disorder that affects girls only, impacting normal growth.
Treatment: Injections are used to improve physical growth and increase height. -
Children with Noonan Syndrome
Description: A genetic disorder causing short stature and growth delay.
Treatment: Growth hormone injections help improve height and physical growth rate. -
Children with Chronic Kidney Failure
Description: This disease affects hormone balance and slows down growth.
Treatment: Growth hormone injections may be used to counteract the negative effects of kidney failure on growth. -
Children with Severe Malnutrition
Description: Poor nutrition during early childhood affects bone and body growth.
Treatment: After treating malnutrition, growth hormone may be used to stimulate growth again. -
Children Who Have Underwent Chemotherapy or Radiation Therapy
Description: Cancer treatment can impact the child's growth and endocrine system.
Treatment: Growth hormone injections help counteract growth delays caused by treatments. -
Children with Down Syndrome
Description: These children experience general delays in both physical and mental development.
Treatment: Injections may help stimulate physical growth and improve bone and muscle structure. -
Children with Other Hormonal Disorders
Description: Such as issues with the thyroid or adrenal glands that affect growth.
Treatment: Growth hormone may be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to stimulate growth in cases where the child’s height is inappropriate for their age.
Types of Growth Hormone Injections for Children
Growth hormone injections are effective treatments for children experiencing growth delays or a deficiency in natural growth hormone. These injections are used under the supervision of a specialist doctor, who will determine the type and dosage based on the child's health condition.
Here are the main types of growth hormone injections for children and how they are used, along with potential side effects:
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Somatropin Injection
The most common and widely used type.
It is synthesized to resemble the natural hormone produced by the pituitary gland.
Typically administered via subcutaneous injection daily or as prescribed by the doctor.Popular brand names:
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Genotropin
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Norditropin
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Humatrope
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Saizen
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Somatropin Lans Injection
Similar to Somatropin but with an improved formulation for better absorption.
It is given less frequently, which reduces discomfort for the child. -
Aximotropin Injection
Used for treating growth hormone deficiency caused by pituitary gland malfunction.
Helps stimulate natural growth and increase height. -
Norditropin Injection
A derivative of Somatropin, used to improve growth in children with hormonal disorders. -
Somatuline Injection
Given in specific cases to stimulate temporary growth in children with growth delays. -
Protropin Injection
A growth hormone produced using genetic engineering techniques.
It is used to compensate for the deficiency and stimulate bone and muscle growth. -
Eutropin Injection
A type of Somatropin produced synthetically.
Helps improve body structure and increase height in children with deficiencies. -
Bigatropin Injection
Used in varying doses depending on the child's needs.
Administered via subcutaneous injection. -
Neotropin Injection
Effective in treating growth delays, used under medical supervision to help the child grow naturally. -
Recombinant Growth Hormone Injection
A human growth hormone modified using biotechnology.
It includes several well-known types like "Genotropin" and "Saizen." -
Cozymotropin Injection
Produced using biotechnology as well.
Used in cases of growth hormone deficiency and given subcutaneously to stimulate growth.
How to Use Growth Hormone Injections for Children
Most injections are given subcutaneously, and it is recommended to change the injection site to avoid irritation.
Best Injection Sites:
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Thigh
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Abdomen
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Rear side of the arm
Parents should learn the proper injection technique from the doctor to avoid skin issues or bruising.
Potential Side Effects of Growth Hormone Injections
Despite their significant benefits, some side effects may occur, such as:
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Pain or swelling at the injection site
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Mild headache
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Joint or muscle pain
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Weight gain
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Blood sugar disturbances
Important Notes:
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These injections should not be used without a prescription.
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Regular follow-ups with the doctor are essential to adjust the dosage and monitor progress.
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Do not buy these injections from unreliable sources to avoid counterfeit products or ineffective medications.
Benefits of Increased Growth Hormone Secretion in Children
Growth hormone is one of the essential hormones that contribute to a child's natural and balanced growth. When this hormone is secreted in appropriate amounts, it enhances many vital functions in the body. Here are the main benefits of increased growth hormone secretion in children:
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Stimulating Healthy Physical Growth
Growth hormone promotes the growth of bones and muscle tissues, which helps in increasing height and overall growth. Natural secretion of this hormone ensures healthy body development, ensuring balanced growth. -
Strengthening Bones and Muscles
The hormone stimulates the growth of bone and muscle tissues, leading to stronger bones and increased muscle mass. This improves the child’s ability to engage in daily activities and interact more effectively with their surroundings. -
Stimulating Metabolism
Growth hormone helps improve metabolic processes in the body, meaning it aids in more efficient food utilization. As a result, it boosts energy and activity levels in children, helping them engage in daily activities with greater vitality. -
Supporting the Immune System
Another benefit of growth hormone is its ability to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are involved in fighting diseases and infections. This enhances the health of the immune system, making the child more capable of resisting illnesses. -
Improving Mental Growth and Cognitive Development
Some studies suggest that increased growth hormone secretion may help improve a child’s cognitive performance. Growth hormone contributes to brain development, enhancing the child’s intellectual abilities and facilitating their learning skills. -
Supporting the Growth of Internal Tissues
The impact of growth hormone is not limited to bones and muscles; it extends to internal tissues like organs and skin. The hormone helps maintain the health and proper development of internal tissues. -
Improving Skin and Hair Condition
Growth hormone enhances cell regeneration, including skin and hair cells. This helps improve skin appearance, reduce issues like dryness and early wrinkles, and promote healthy hair growth. -
Supporting Natural Growth During Growth Spurts
During periods of rapid growth, such as puberty, the body requires higher levels of growth hormone to ensure natural development. During these times, growth hormone helps accelerate the growth process in a healthy and balanced way. -
Promoting Fast Healing and Recovery
Growth hormone aids in tissue regeneration. This means it helps accelerate healing from injuries and fractures, which is essential for children who get injured while playing or engaging in sports. -
Improving Fat Balance in the Body
Growth hormone helps regulate fat distribution in the body. It enhances fat burning and increases muscle mass, contributing to better physical fitness and helping build a healthy body. -
Increasing Energy and Overall Activity
One of the most notable benefits of growth hormone is its ability to increase energy levels, helping children stay more active in their daily lives. This increased activity boosts both their mental and physical health. -
Stimulating the Function of Internal Organs
Increased growth hormone secretion can improve the performance of internal organs, such as the liver and kidneys. This helps enhance detoxification processes in the body and supports the overall function of vital organs.
Harms of Increased Growth Hormone Secretion in Children
Although growth hormone is considered one of the essential hormones that contribute to a child's growth and body development, its excess can lead to serious health problems. Increased growth hormone secretion in children is a rare condition, but it can cause a range of harms if not treated properly. Here are the main potential harms:
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Acromegaly
When growth hormone levels remain elevated for a long period, excessive growth may occur in bones and tissues, especially in the hands and feet. You may notice that the size of the child's hands and feet increases abnormally, causing embarrassment or problems with mobility. -
Heart Problems
Increased growth hormone can lead to heart enlargement, which raises the risk of cardiovascular health issues. Over time, this enlargement may affect heart function, exposing the child to the risk of heart disease in the future. -
Problems with General Growth
While growth hormone contributes to normal, balanced body growth, its excess can lead to unbalanced growth. In some cases, one part of the body may grow excessively while the rest of the body grows less, causing issues with physical appearance and function. -
Increased Risk of Diabetes
Elevated growth hormone levels may negatively affect the body's ability to use insulin effectively, increasing the likelihood of the child developing type 2 diabetes. This poses a risk to the child's overall health and requires close medical monitoring. -
Joint Problems
Increased growth hormone secretion may lead to abnormal bone growth, causing joint damage over time. This problem can lead to chronic pain and difficulty moving, affecting the child's ability to engage in daily activities normally. -
Effect on the Endocrine System
Excessive growth hormone can also affect the balance of other endocrine glands in the body, leading to other hormonal disorders. These disorders may include hyperthyroidism, which negatively impacts other bodily functions.
When Do Growth Hormone Injections Start Showing Results in Children?
The effects of growth hormone injections in children vary from one child to another, depending on their health condition and how they respond to treatment. However, the effects of treatment typically begin to show gradually within a period ranging from 3 to 6 months after starting the treatment. Full growth and achieving optimal results may take longer.
Factors That Affect the Speed of Treatment Effects
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Child's Health Condition:
If the child suffers from a severe deficiency in growth hormone or other health issues affecting growth, the effects of treatment may appear faster than in children with milder conditions. -
Age of the Child:
Children in early childhood (before puberty) usually respond more quickly to growth hormone treatment compared to adolescents or children in puberty. The younger the child, the more noticeable the initial effect of treatment. -
Dose and Duration of Treatment:
The correct dose and treatment duration also affect the speed of results. In some cases, children may show noticeable increases in height during the first few months, while others may take longer. -
Expected Growth Rate:
The expected growth depends on the child's overall health condition. In some cases, parents may notice a small increase in height initially, while others may see a greater increase after some time.
What Changes Might You Notice in Your Child?
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Increase in Height
Initially, height increases may be slow, but they become more noticeable over time. -
Improvement in Muscle and Bone Growth
Over time, parents may notice improvements in bone density and muscle strength in their child. -
Improvement in Overall Activity
The child may show improvements in energy levels and overall activity, reflecting their positive response to treatment.
Tips for Monitoring and Follow-Up
It is important to regularly monitor the child's progress with the treating doctor throughout the treatment period. Any side effects should be tracked, and doses should be adjusted as needed. Growth hormone treatment may last several years in some cases until the child reaches puberty or achieves full growth. Therefore, it is crucial to be patient and adhere to the prescribed treatment plan.
Important Guidelines Before Using Growth Hormone Injections for Children
Before starting treatment with growth hormone injections for children, it is essential to follow some important guidelines to ensure treatment success and the child's safety. Here are the main guidelines:
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Consult a Specialist Doctor
It is essential for a specialist in endocrinology or pediatric growth to accurately diagnose the child's condition before starting treatment. The doctor will perform blood tests and examinations to determine the level of growth hormone and confirm whether there is a real deficiency in the hormone or other health problems requiring treatment. -
Confirm Diagnosis
Before beginning treatment, it is important to ensure that the child is suffering from a growth hormone deficiency or another disorder requiring treatment. In some cases, short stature may be due to genetic factors or other reasons that do not require growth hormone treatment. -
Adhere to Dosage Instructions
It is important for parents or caregivers to follow precise instructions regarding the dose and timing of injections as specified by the doctor. The doctor may determine the dose based on the child's weight, age, and health condition. Do not alter the dose or injection timing without consulting the doctor. -
Carefully Choose Injection Sites
Growth hormone injections are usually given subcutaneously in areas such as the thigh, upper arm, or abdomen. It is recommended to rotate injection sites regularly to avoid swelling or pain in the same area. Ensure that the site is clean and sterilized before injecting to prevent infection. -
Check the Injection Quality
Ensure that the injections and medication are in good condition before use, including checking for expiration dates or damage to the vial. Do not use damaged or contaminated syringes or needles. -
Proper Storage of Medication
Growth hormone injections should be stored in the refrigerator (between 2 to 8°C) to maintain their effectiveness. Avoid freezing the medication, as it may damage it. Before injection, remove the injection from the refrigerator and let it reach room temperature. -
Monitor for Side Effects
Regularly monitor the child for any potential side effects such as redness, pain at the injection site, or swelling. If any unexpected symptoms such as headaches, joint pain, abnormal weight gain, or vision problems occur, consult the doctor immediately. -
Balanced Nutrition and Exercise
The child should follow a balanced diet containing the essential nutrients needed for healthy growth. Regular physical activity may also enhance the effectiveness of treatment, but it is important to consult the doctor before starting any exercise program for the child during growth hormone treatment. -
Regular Communication with the Doctor
It is essential to follow up with the treating doctor regularly to ensure the child’s response to treatment and monitor the growth hormone levels in the blood. The doctor may request periodic tests to adjust the dose and assess the treatment’s effect on the child's growth. -
Consider the Psychological Aspects of the Child
The child may feel some anxiety or embarrassment from daily injections. It is important to talk to the child and explain the importance of the treatment and its positive impact on their growth. Supporting the child emotionally and encouraging them to accept the treatment can help them adjust to the injection process.
Note: It is crucial for parents to monitor each step of the treatment with the doctor to ensure the best results and the child’s safety throughout the treatment period.