Omnitrope® (somatropin)
What is Omnitrope?
Omnitrope is a prescription growth hormone medicine. It is used to help children who do not make enough natural growth hormone grow and develop normally.
Omnitrope is a man-made form of growth hormone that works like the growth hormone made 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.
Omnitrope may also be used for some children with other growth conditions, such as:
- Turner 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 Omnitrope is right for your child.
How is Omnitrope given?
Omnitrope is:
- Given as a shot under the skin
- Usually given once daily
- Often given in the evening
Common injection areas include:
- Stomach
- Thighs
- Upper arms
- Buttocks
It is important to rotate injection sites to help prevent skin irritation.
Your healthcare team will teach you how to prepare and give the injections safely.
How should Omnitrope be stored?
- Keep Omnitrope in the refrigerator
- Do not freeze it
- Store it in the original container
- Keep it away from heat and sunlight
- Keep out of reach of children
Always follow the storage instructions from your pharmacy.
What are common side effects?
Many children do well on Omnitrope. Some common side effects may include:
- Redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site
- Headache
- Muscle or joint pain
- Swelling of hands or feet
- Mild stomach pain
- Tiredness
Most side effects are mild and improve over time.
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
- Signs of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst or urination
- Signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling, or trouble breathing
Get emergency help right away for severe allergic reactions or breathing problems.
Important safety information
Tell your child’s healthcare provider if your child has:
- Diabetes
- Scoliosis
- Sleep apnea
- A history of cancer
- Recent surgery or serious illness
Your child will need regular clinic visits and blood tests while taking Omnitrope.
Tips for families
- Give the medicine at the same time each day
- Rotate injection sites
- Keep all follow-up appointments
- Track your child’s height and weight
Growth takes time. Many children stay on treatment for several years.
Questions?
If you have questions about Omnitrope, contact your pediatric endocrinology team at Endo For Kids.
