In the Omnitrope instructions outlined below, we cover how to use this medication for the treatment of adult growth hormone deficiency (AGHD). Omnitrope is a brand of HGH injections manufactured by Sandoz Inc, a Novartis Division.
Our hormone specialists at HGH Doctor medical clinic prescribe Omnitrope HGH to men and women who do not want to sacrifice quality for monetary savings. Sandoz makes HGH therapy affordable to those who need it.
Omnitrope is one of the leading brands of HGH available to treat AGHD. It is available in 5 and 10 mg pens and 5.8 mg vials.
Is there any difference between getting Omnitrope in vials or pens?
The only change is in the actual preparation and administration process. As you will see in the Omnitrope instructions provided below, the injector pen method simplifies the process. However, Omnitrope medication is the same, no matter which option you choose. Individuals who want to spend the least money on their treatment often opt for Omnitrope in vials.
*Omnitrope instructions depend on whether you select the injector pen or vial and syringe method of administering the HGH medication.
Description
Omnitrope is a brand of somatropin that is biosimilar in structure to somatotropin, also known as growth hormone. The pituitary gland produces somatotropin, a 191-single chain, amino acid, polypeptide protein. Omnitrope contains the same 191 amino acids, making it molecularly identical to growth hormone. That allows the body to use Omnitrope HGH the same way it does growth hormone.
Omnitrope pens utilize replaceable cartridges that come prefilled and premixed. There is no diluent necessary as the HGH medication is ready to go once inserted into the pen unit and primed. When purchasing Omnitrope in vials, the HGH medication is in its lyophilized (freeze-dried) state. Before its use, the Omnitrope requires reconstitution with the provided diluent. Omnitrope instructions include illustrations and directions for preparation and administration.
Upon diagnosis with AGHD following blood analysis and physical examination, the doctor may prescribe Omnitrope to help improve many functions in the body, including:
- Supporting restful sleep
- Stimulating metabolism, fat burning, and weight loss
- Increasing energy
- Improving cellular regeneration necessary for the skin, hair, bones, organs, and muscles
- Sharpening brain functions, including focus and memory
- Strengthening the immune system to resist invading microorganisms and speed healing
- Enhancing sexual desire and functions
- Reducing depression and stress to balance emotional well-being
In addition to the Omnitrope instructions below, we also provide online videos that show the entire preparation and injection process. Our medical advisors are available by phone while you prepare and administer your first HGH injection if desired.
*Written and video Omnitrope instructions, along with the support of our medical advisors, make it easy to administer your HGH therapy at home.
Instructions
Before proceeding with your first HGH injection, please read the information provided below. In addition to Omnitrope instructions for use, we have also included essential safety facts.
Omnitrope HGH is an approved medication for the treatment of growth hormone deficiency. A doctor must prescribe Omnitrope before it can be purchased and used. It is only safe to use Omnitrope if it has been prescribed for you, and in the dosage listed. Do not use another person’s HGH medication or give yours to another individual to use. Also, do not change the dosage or injection frequency without first speaking with your prescribing physician.
Here are some things to remember before each injection:
- Check that the Omnitrope HGH is not expired
- Do not use any Omnitrope that contains particles, crystals, or has a cloudy or discolored appearance
- Always wash your hands with soap and water and dry them with a clean towel before preparing and administering your HGH injection
- Dispose of all medications as directed by the city in which you reside
The Omnitrope instructions below cover the information you need before starting your HGH treatment:
Indications
Omnitrope HGH is indicated for the treatment of both childhood and adult-onset growth hormone deficiency. Doctors diagnose GHD through blood analysis and physical examination. Warning signs of GHD in adults include:
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Insomnia
- Bone loss
- Muscle mass loss
- Depression
- Mood changes
- Brain fog, forgetfulness, decreased drive
- Aging skin
- Thinning hair
- Increased incidence of illness
- Slow healing
- Sexual decline
Contraindications
- Cancer (malignancy) or tumors
- Acute critical illness due to complications from stomach or heart surgery, multiple accidental trauma, or severe respiratory failure
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Pregnancy, nursing, or trying to become pregnant
- Allergies to somatropin, disodium hydrogen phosphate heptahydrate, and sodium dihydrogen phosphate dihydrate, or other ingredients in Omnitrope, including:
- In the 5 mg cartridges: poloxamer 188, mannitol, benzyl alcohol
- In the 10 mg cartridges: poloxamer 188, glycine, phenol
- In the 5.8 mg vials: glycine, benzyl alcohol
Let your doctor know if you have any current or prior history of diabetes, cancer, or tumors. Please list all prescription and over-the-counter medications, supplements, and vitamins that you use.
Dosage
The doctor will base your dosage of Omnitrope on factors that include level of deficiency, as shown by blood analysis, body composition, health, gender, age, and need.
Be careful to use the precise dosage as prescribed. Short-term overdose could result in hypoglycemia and lead to hyperglycemia. Long-term overdosing could result in acromegaly and risk of other health issues.
Storage
Omnitrope is light-sensitive and should be stored in its carton in the refrigerator at all times when not in use. Do not place Omnitrope in the freezer or expose it to heat. Keep Omnitrope and all medications out of reach of children and pets.
After the first use of each cartridge, the Omnitrope HGH medication is usable for a maximum of 28 days. Following reconstitution, the Omnitrope vials must be used within 3 weeks (21 days).
Use
Omnitrope is administered via subcutaneous injection under the skin. Most people use the abdomen, alternating sides, and staying at least one inch away from the belly button.
Instructions for inserting a new cartridge in the 5 and 10 mg Omnitrope pens:
- Ensure that the cartridge matches the pen – do not insert a 5 mg cartridge in a 10 mg pen or a 10 mg cartridge in a 5 mg pen
- Remove the pen and cartridge from the refrigerator 30 minutes before use
- Pull the pen cap off the pen and turn the cartridge holder clockwise to separate the pen and cartridge holder
- Point the metal cap end of the cartridge down and insert it into the cartridge holder
- Attach the pen body onto the cartridge holder with the black rod pressing against the cartridge plunger and screw the pieces together entirely in a counterclockwise direction until a blue arrow on the cartridge holder lines up with the white line (10 mg pen) or yellow line (5 mg pen) mark on the pen’s body – do not overtighten
- Attach a new needle by removing the paper tab and pressing and then screwing the needle onto the pen’s cartridge holder end in a counterclockwise direction all the way
- Remove the outer needle shield and put it aside for later use
- You only need to prime a new cartridge one time before its first use – to do so, gently tap the cartridge holder with a finger to force the air bubbles in the cartridge to rise to the top
- With the dose window facing you and the needle pointing up, turn the dose knob clockwise until you hear one click – check that the arrow on the 5 mg pen lines up with the small line between “0” and “0.1” for 0.05 mg (the arrow on the 10 mg pen will be between “0” and “0.2” for 0.1 mg)
- Remove the needle’s inner shield and turn the dose knob back counterclockwise to the “0” position – you should see at least 2 drops of medicine flow out the needle – if not, repeat the priming steps again
- You will dial your dose of Omnitrope by turning the knob clockwise – if you pass your dose, do NOT turn back – you will need to keep turning clockwise until the bent arrow shows in the window, and then continue turning the knob until you hear a click and the pen body is fully extended
- Once you reach that point, press the injection button to reset the dial to “0” – no medication will release
- Use an alcohol wipe to clean the injection site and let air dry
- Pinch the skin around the site and insert the needle at a 90-degree angle
- Push the injection button in all the way and hold in place for 5 seconds before releasing and removing the needle
- Replace the outer needle cap, unscrew the needle, and discard in the Sharps container
Here are the instructions for preparing the Omnitrope vial for use:
- You will use two vials – one containing Omnitrope HGH powder and the other the diluent
- Remove the caps from both vials and wipe the tops with an alcohol swab
- Take a 3 mL syringe with the needle firmly attached (cap removed and set aside) and pull back the plunger to fill the syringe with air equal to the amount of fluid you will withdraw
- Place the needle into the diluent cap and push in the plunger to propel the air into the vial
- Invert the vial, so the liquid covers the needle tip and pull back the plunger to fill the syringe with the prescribed amount of solution
- Remove the needle from the diluent vial and push it into the Omnitrope vial, pointing the needle tip to the side so that the diluent flows down the side of the vial as you slowly push in the plunger
- Remove and recap the needle, discarding the syringe in the Sharps container
- Swirl the vial gently to mix the solution – do not shake
- Once the solution is clear and free of particles it is ready for use
- Use a new injecting syringe and needle (remove and set aside the needle cover for reuse) and push the needle through the Omnitrope rubber stopper and invert the vial to cover the needle tip with the medication
- Pull back the plunger slowly to fill the syringe with the prescribed dosage of medicine – check for and remove air bubbles before removing needle from vial
- Use an alcohol wipe to clean the injection site and let air dry
- Pinch the skin around the site and insert the needle at a 90-degree angle
- Release the pinch and slowly pull the plunger slightly back to check that no blood enters the syringe (if you see blood, withdraw the needle and move to a different site)
- Slowly push in the plunger all the way then pull the needle straight out – replace the needle cap and discard the syringe and needle in the Sharps container
Drug Interactions
People who use any of the following medications may require additional monitoring and adjustments to their dosages:
- 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1
- Cytochrome P450-Metabolized drugs
- Oral estrogen
- Insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents
- Glucocorticoids
Warnings
Let your doctor know if you experience any of the following while taking Omnitrope:
- Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, swelling of the throat or face (tongue, lips, eyes), rash, or hives
- High blood sugar
- Pain in the joint, nerves, or muscles
- Fluid retention
- Unusual changes to the skin
The most common side effect of Omnitrope is irritation, redness, pain, swelling, or numbness at the injection site. These reactions rectify themselves without any medical intervention. Some people may experience mild edema while their bodies get used to the increase in HGH levels. Report any long-lasting or unexpected side effects to your doctor.
Please contact HGH Doctor with any questions or information about these Omnitrope instructions of HGH therapy.