Genotropin HGH is a brand of human growth hormone injections manufactured by Pfizer. It is used to treat growth hormone deficiency (GHD) in children and adults. In this report, we focus on the use of Genotropin for the treatment of adult GHD, including Genotropin instructions for use.
In addition to providing complete instruction for the subcutaneous injections of Genotropin, we also offer online video links to watch the preparation and administration of the HGH treatments. Our medical advisors are also available to guide you through the process over the phone when administering your first HGH injection.
Why should I choose Genotropin HGH over other brands of human growth hormones?
Here at HGH Doctor, we recommend many high-quality brands of HGH therapy, including Genotropin, Norditropin, Humatrope, Saizen, Omnitrope, and Zomacton. The primary factors for selecting one brand over the others is the price and the style of injectable. Many people like the convenience of the Genotropin MiniQuick prefilled syringes – especially if they like to travel. More on that in the next section.
*Genotropin instructions for the pens, Mixer, and MiniQuick syringes are provided in this review.
Description
Genotropin comes as a lyophilized white powder containing the same 191 amino acid molecular structure as pituitary growth hormone. It is produced using recombinant DNA technology and requires reconstitution before use.
Genotropin instructions vary slightly depending on the injector style selected for use.
Genotropin comes in either 5 mg or 12 mg injector pens. The pens and cartridges are color-coded to allow for proper use. Do not use the 5 mg cartridge in the 12 mg pen systems or vice versa. Genotropin cartridges can also be used with the Genotropin Mixer and standard insulin syringes. The medication reconstitutes once inside either the pen systems or the Mixer.
You can also select the Genotropin MiniQuick – a prefilled, disposable, single-use syringe available in 10 different strengths. The MiniQuick is an excellent option for travelers as it is stable at room temperature for up to 3 months.
Both the injector pen cartridges and MiniQuick syringes contain two chambers, one housing the lyophilized HGH powder and the other the diluent. The HGH medication mixes inside the units before use.
*Genotropin instructions vary depending on the injector style selected for use.
Instructions
It is imperative to follow the Genotropin instructions below to reduce the risk of side effects and provide the best possible results. Please familiarize yourself with the information outlined below before proceeding with your first injection.
Genotropin is safe when used as prescribed by a hormone specialist following blood testing and physical examination. Do not use Genotropin HGH if it has not been prescribed to you. Do not share any HGH medications with another person. Please contact HGH Doctor hormone clinic with any questions you have about using Genotropin injections.
Do not change your dosage or injection frequency without doctor authorization. Always remember to wash your hands with soap and water before preparing and injecting Genotropin HGH. Check your medication before each use for the expiration date and to ensure that there are no particles, crystals, or changes to the color of the HGH solution (including cloudy appearance). Do not use the prepared Genotropin if any of these issues are present.
Please read the information below before getting started:
Indications
Genotropin is indicated for use by adults with either adult or childhood-onset of growth hormone deficiency as indicated by examination and blood test confirmation. Symptoms of GHD in adults include:
- Muscle loss
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Weight gain
- Bone loss (joint pains/height shrinkage)
- Low libido/sexual decline
- Poor immune functions
- Slow healing
- Depression/mood changes/stress/anxiety
- Forgetfulness/poor focus/impaired brain functions
- Wrinkles/sagging skin
- Hair thinning/balding
- Temperature sensitivity
Contraindications
Genotropin is contraindicated in the following situations:
- Active malignancy (cancer or tumor) until cleared by the oncologist
- Acute critical illness resulting from complications due to open-heart or abdominal surgery, multiple accidental trauma, or acute respiratory failure
- Diabetic retinopathy (severe non-proliferative or active proliferative)
- Allergy to ingredients in Genotropin, including somatropin, m-cresol, glycine, mannitol, sodium dihydrogen phosphate anhydrous, disodium phosphate anhydrous
Dosage
Your doctor will prescribe your dosage of Genotropin based on need as determined by blood analysis, physical examination, body composition, health, gender, and age.
Storage
Genotropin 5 and 12 mg cartridges require continual refrigeration and may be used for up to 28 days upon reconstitution. Do not freeze or expose Genotropin to heat.
The Genotropin MiniQuick syringes may be stored at room temperature for up to 3 months. Upon mixing, the solution must be used immediately or may be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before use.
Use
The following Genotropin instructions are for the MiniQuick single-dose, disposable syringes:
- Remove a prefilled, two-chamber syringe from its package and wipe the rubber stopper with a new alcohol pad
- Peel the paper seal off the back of a new injection needle and attach it to the MiniQuick by pushing down and turning the needle all the way clockwise (to the right) – the needle must be
- squarely and securely in place
- Position the syringe with the needle pointing up (still capped) and turn the plunger rod to the right (clockwise) all the way to mix the solution
- Wait until the mixture is completely free of particles before proceeding with the shot – do not shake the HGH solution
- Wipe the injection site on your abdomen (one inch from the belly button) with a fresh alcohol swab and let air dry
- Remove the outer and inner needle cover, discarding the inner but retaining the outer cover to recap the needle after use
- Pinch a small fold of prepared skin and insert the needle fully into it at a 90-degree angle
- Push the plunger rod all the way in and wait a few seconds to allow all the medication to exit the syringe and enter the body
- Remove the needle, replace the cover, and discard the unit in the Sharps container
The following instructions are for the Genotropin Pen cartridges:
- Always verify that you are using the compatible HGH cartridges for your pen – the colors will match up
- Follow the instructions for attaching the needle and inserting the cartridge into the pen as provided in your medication kit
- When using a new cartridge for the first time, you will first attach the needle before inserting the cartridge
- For subsequent injections with the inserted cartridge, you will only need to attach a new needle for each use
- The dosage button of the Genotropin Pens can turn in either direction, making it easy to go back if you pass your prescribed dose
- Prepare the injection site by cleaning the area of skin with an alcohol pad and letting air dry
- Remove the outer and inner needle covers, setting aside the outer cover for later use (discard the inner cover)
- Pinch a small area of prepared skin and insert the needle at a 90-degree angle then press in the injection button until it clicks, keeping the needle in the skin for five seconds before removing to ensure the entire dose enters the body
- Remove the needle, replace the outer cap, and discard the needle in the Sharps container
- Replace the pen cap and return the pen with the inserted cartridge to the refrigerator for storage
Drug Interactions
Use of the following drugs may require additional monitoring as the dosage of the medications may require adjustments:
- Oral estrogen
- Insulin
- Glucocorticoids
- Cytochrome P450-Metabolized drugs
- 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1
Warnings
Aside from the contraindications listed above, please let the doctor know if any of the following apply:
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding or looking to become pregnant
The following issues could arise while on HGH therapy (rare):
- Fluid retention
- High blood sugar/impaired glucose tolerance
- Intracranial hypertension
- Hypopituitarism
- Hypothyroidism
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
Please contact your doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Allergic reactions such as hives, rash, swelling of the throat or face (lips, tongue, eyes), difficulty breathing
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pale skin
- Wheezing
- Headache
- Nerve, muscle, or joint pain
- High blood sugar
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
You may notice some irritation, redness, pain, or itching at the injection site, especially in the early stages of treatment, as you get used to administering the shots. There is no need for concern unless the symptoms do not go away or worsen.
If you have any questions about HGH therapy or the Genotropin instructions, please contact HGH Doctor as we are here to help.