What is growth hormone?
Growth hormone (GH), also known as somatotropin, is a hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. It is made up of 191 amino acids and is produced throughout a person’s lifetime, though the amount varies by age. Secretion is highest during childhood – particularly during sleep – and declines in adulthood, especially in old age.
GH stimulates growth across virtually all cells, tissues, and organs. In children, it causes bones to lengthen, increasing height. In adults who have stopped growing, it maintains bone width and density. It also plays a key role in the metabolism of protein, carbohydrates, and fat, and supports organ development, function, and learning.
Children who are deficient in GH – or whose bodies do not produce enough – will show noticeably slow growth and short stature.
What causes slow growth and short stature in children?
There are many possible causes:
- Genetics inherited from parents
- Nutritional deficiency
- Growth hormone deficiency
- Underactive gonads (hypogonadism)
- Hypothyroidism
- Chronic kidney disease
- Small for gestational age (SGA) at birth — most catch up within 2–4 years
- Genetic conditions such as Noonan syndrome or Turner syndrome
- Idiopathic short stature (no identifiable cause)
Who is growth hormone treatment used for?
GH therapy is used in several cases:
- GH deficiency. Children treated between ages 0–3 (especially under 12 months) show the best results in both height and weight gain. Treatment stops once the growth plates in the bones have closed.
- Associated genetic conditions such as Noonan syndrome and Turner syndrome. Studies support modest height gains — for example, children with Turner syndrome may gain 5–8 cm — though results vary since these patients often receive other treatments simultaneously.
- Small for gestational age (SGA) where the child has not caught up to normal growth by ages 2–4. Results vary depending on genetics, age at the start of treatment, duration of use, and other factors.
- Idiopathic short stature. Effectiveness varies considerably and evidence remains inconsistent.
Important considerations when using growth hormone
- Anyone administering the injections – whether the patient or a caregiver – should be properly trained and follow the product instructions carefully.
- Use only the prescribed dose. Exceeding it increases the risk of both immediate and long-term adverse effects.
- Support the treatment with a balanced diet – especially adequate protein and calcium – and regular exercise to promote growth and bone strength.
- Inject consistently as directed. Missed doses reduce the drug’s effectiveness and may create a false impression that the current dose is insufficient.
- Subcutaneous injections can be given in the abdomen, upper arm, buttocks, or thigh. Rotate injection sites each time to prevent localized fat tissue atrophy.
- Attend all scheduled follow – up appointments to assess treatment effectiveness and monitor for any side effects.
