Valtropin

Generic name: Somatropin

What is Valtropin?

Valtropin is a recombinant human growth hormone used to treat children who have failed to grow due to an inadequate secretion of normal endogeneous growth hormone. It is also used to treat short stature associated with Turner's syndrome in children whose epiphyses are not closed.

What is the most important information I should know about Valtropin?

The safety and effectiveness of Valtropin have not been evaluated in adult patients.

Who should not take Valtropin?

Valtropin should not be used in children whose epiphyses have closed, in patients with proliferative or preproliferative diabetic retinopathy, in the presence of active cancer, in critically ill patients, or in patients with Prader-Willi syndrome.

Valtropin should not be used following open heart surgery, abdominal surgery or multiple accidental trauma or in patients with acute respiratory failure or any evidence of progression or recurrence of an underlying intracranial tumor.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Valtropin?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Valtropin. Also talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially about any history or diabetes, brain tumor, or decreased thyroid hormone levels.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The recommended dose is 0.3 mg/kg body weight per day.

Children: The recommended weekly dose is 0.17 to 0.3 mg/kg body weight per day.

How should I take Valtropin?

Take Valtropin as prescribed by your doctor. It should be injected subcutaneously (under the skin) after reconstitution with the diluent.

What should I avoid while taking Valtropin?

Avoid using Valtropin vial more than once if reconstituted with water. Do not inject Valtropin intravenously.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Valtropin?

If Valtropin is used with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Valtropin with the following: cortisone, estrogens, insulin

What are the possible side effects of Valtropin?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: allergic reactions cough, headache, pyrexia.

Signs of severe allergic reactions may include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the throat. If any of these events occur, seek immediate medical attention.

Can I receive Valtropin if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Valtropin is to be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Valtropin?

NA

How should I store Valtropin?

Vials of Valtropin should be stored in the refrigerator (2-8C or 36-46F). When reconstituted with the diluent it should be stored at 2-8C or 36-46F for up to 21 days.