Zomacton (Somatropin)

What is Zomacton (Somatropin)?

Zomacton is a recombinant form of human growth hormone (HGH) known as Somatropin. It is used to treat growth hormone deficiency (GHD) in children and adults. Produced using recombinant DNA technology, Zomacton mimics the effects of naturally occurring HGH, supporting growth, development, and metabolic processes in the body.

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What are the Uses of Zomacton (Somatropin)?

In Children:

• Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD)

• Turner Syndrome

• Chronic Renal Insufficiency (growth failure due to kidney disease)

• Small for Gestational Age (SGA) with no catch-up growth

• Prader-Willi Syndrome (to improve growth and reduce body fat)

In Adults:

• Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency (caused by pituitary disease, trauma, surgery, or radiation)

• HIV-associated wasting or cachexia

• Body composition management in confirmed HGH-deficient adults

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What are the Benefits of Zomacton (Somatropin)?

• Stimulates normal growth in children with GHD

• Improves body composition by increasing lean mass and reducing fat

• Enhances bone density and strength

• Boosts physical stamina and energy levels

• Helps regulate metabolism (protein, carbohydrate, fat)

• Improves quality of life in adults with GH deficiency

• Supports muscle regeneration in catabolic states like HIV-wasting

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How Does Zomacton (Somatropin) Work?

Zomacton works by binding to growth hormone receptors, stimulating the production of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), primarily in the liver. IGF-1 promotes:

• Bone growth

• Muscle development

• Fat metabolism

• Cell regeneration and repair

This hormone regulates growth and metabolic processes essential for normal development.

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How to Take Zomacton (Somatropin)?

• Administered via subcutaneous injection, typically once daily.

• Preferably injected in the evening to mimic natural GH release.

• Injection sites (thigh, abdomen, buttocks) should be rotated regularly.

• Zomacton comes as a lyophilized powder and needs to be reconstituted with a diluent before use.

• Use the injection pen or prefilled syringe, if provided, as per your doctor’s instructions.

Only trained patients or caregivers should administer the injection after proper instruction from healthcare professionals.

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Dosage of Zomacton (Somatropin)

Dosage varies depending on the patient’s age, weight, condition, and response to therapy.

Typical Dosages:

• Children with GHD: 0.16–0.24 mg/kg body weight per week (divided into daily doses)

• Adults with GHD: Start with 0.15–0.3 mg/day, adjusted based on IGF-1 levels and tolerance

• HIV-associated wasting: Up to 0.1 mg/kg/day

Never adjust your dose without medical advice.

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Missed Dose and Overdose

Missed Dose:

• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember on the same day.

• If it’s close to the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up.

Overdose:

• Acute overdose may cause hypoglycemia, followed by hyperglycemia.

• Chronic overdose may lead to signs of GH excess (e.g., acromegaly).

• In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention.

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What are the Available Strengths of Zomacton?

Zomacton is available in various strengths for flexible dosing:

• Zomacton 4 mg

• Zomacton 5 mg

• Zomacton 10 mg

• Zomacton 12 mg (cartridge for use with injection pen)

The concentration and presentation may vary slightly between countries or manufacturers.

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Side Effects of Zomacton (Somatropin)

Common Side Effects:

• Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, pain)

• Joint or muscle pain

• Headache

• Swelling due to fluid retention (edema)

• Fatigue

Serious Side Effects (Seek medical help):

• Signs of intracranial hypertension (severe headache, vision changes)

• Pancreatitis (abdominal pain, nausea)

• Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (limping or hip pain in children)

• Hyperglycemia or insulin resistance

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, breathing difficulty)

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Interactions of Zomacton (Somatropin)

Zomacton may interact with:

• Insulin or antidiabetic drugs – may alter glucose metabolism

• Corticosteroids – may reduce effectiveness of GH therapy

• Thyroid hormone replacements – GH can unmask or worsen hypothyroidism

• Oral estrogen (in women) – may require a higher GH dose due to altered metabolism

Always inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you’re taking.

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Precautions of Zomacton (Somatropin)

• Not recommended for use in patients with active cancer or tumors

• Should not be used in critically ill patients post-surgery or trauma

• Monitor for signs of scoliosis progression in children

• May require dose adjustment in diabetic patients

• Use with caution in individuals with hypothyroidism or adrenal insufficiency

• Regular monitoring of IGF-1 levels, glucose, and thyroid function is advised

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should use only if clearly needed and prescribed.

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Storage Information

• Store unopened vials/cartridges in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F)

• Do not freeze

• Once reconstituted, use within the recommended timeframe (usually 14–21 days) and store in the refrigerator

• Keep away from direct light and heat

• Always check product leaflet for specific storage instructions

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Availability in the US and Australia

• United States: Zomacton is FDA-approved and available by prescription through endocrinologists and specialized pharmacies.

• Australia: Available under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for approved conditions and prescribed by specialists in endocrinology or pediatric medicine.

Availability may vary by region, and prior authorization or documentation may be required.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Zomacton safe for long-term use?

Yes, under medical supervision, Zomacton is safe for long-term use, especially in growth hormone deficiency. Regular monitoring is essential to manage side effects.

2. Can adults use Zomacton for anti-aging or bodybuilding?

Zomacton is not approved for anti-aging or performance enhancement. Off-label use without medical supervision is unsafe and illegal in many regions.

3. How long does it take to see results?

In children, growth improvement may be seen within 3–6 months. In adults, improvements in energy, metabolism, or body composition may take weeks to months.

4. Can Zomacton cause diabetes?

It may impair insulin sensitivity in some individuals. Blood sugar should be monitor, especially in those with risk factors for diabetes.

5. Is a prescription required for Zomacton?

Yes, Zomacton is a prescription-only medication and should be use under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider.