Norditropin® (somatropin)
What is Norditropin?
Norditropin is a prescription growth hormone medicine. It is used to help children grow when their bodies do not make enough natural growth hormone.
Norditropin is a man-made form of growth hormone that works like the hormone made naturally by the body.
What is growth hormone?
Growth hormone is made by the pituitary gland, a small gland in the brain. It helps children:
- Grow taller
- Build muscles
- Strengthen bones
- Maintain healthy energy levels
Some children do not make enough growth hormone. This is called growth hormone deficiency.
Norditropin may also be used for children with other growth conditions, including:
- Turner syndrome
- Noonan syndrome
- Chronic kidney disease
- Children born small for gestational age who have not caught up in growth
Your child’s endocrinology provider will decide if Norditropin is the right treatment for your child.
How is Norditropin given?
Norditropin is:
- Given as a shot under the skin
- Usually given once daily
- Often given in the evening
Common injection sites include:
- Stomach
- Thighs
- Upper arms
- Buttocks
It is important to rotate injection sites to help prevent irritation or skin changes.
Your healthcare team will teach you how to safely use the Norditropin pen.
How should Norditropin be stored?
- Keep Norditropin in the refrigerator
- Do not freeze it
- Protect it from heat and direct sunlight
- Keep it out of reach of children
Follow the storage instructions provided by your pharmacy.
What are common side effects?
Many children tolerate Norditropin well. Common side effects may include:
- Redness or pain at the injection site
- Headache
- Muscle or joint pain
- Swelling of hands or feet
- Mild stomach pain
- Tiredness
These side effects are usually mild.
When should I call the doctor?
Call your child’s healthcare provider if your child has:
- Severe headaches
- Vision changes
- Hip or knee pain
- Limping
- Severe swelling
- Trouble breathing
- Severe stomach pain
- Increased thirst or urination
- Signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling, or trouble breathing
Get emergency medical help right away for severe allergic reactions or breathing problems.
Important safety information
Tell your child’s provider if your child has:
- Diabetes
- Scoliosis
- Sleep apnea
- A history of cancer
- Recent surgery or severe illness
Your child will need regular follow-up visits, growth checks, and lab work while taking Norditropin.
Tips for families
- Give the medicine at the same time every day
- Rotate injection sites
- Keep all endocrinology appointments
- Track your child’s height and weight at home
Growth hormone treatment can take several years. Your child’s care team will closely monitor progress.
Questions?
If you have questions about Norditropin, contact your pediatric endocrinology team at Endo For Kids.
