Growth hormone (GH) is a naturally occurring peptide hormone produced by the pituitary gland, a small structure at the base of the brain. It influences height, builds bones and muscles, and regulates metabolism. Synthetic GH, often called somatropin, is prescribed for conditions like growth hormone deficiency in children, which can lead to short stature, and certain adult conditions where the body doesn’t produce enough GH. Growth hormone therapy follows specific dosing schedules to achieve its therapeutic goals.
Importance of Growth Hormone Dosing Consistency
Consistent dosing of growth hormone is important for the therapy’s effectiveness. GH works by signaling cells, including those in bones and cartilage, to multiply and grow. It also stimulates the liver to produce insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which mediates many of GH’s effects on growth and metabolism.
Regular administration helps maintain stable levels of GH and IGF-1. This is necessary for promoting growth in children and maintaining body composition and bone density in adults. Adherence to the prescribed schedule ensures the body consistently receives the signals needed for these processes.
Immediate Impact of Missing a Dose
Missing a single dose of growth hormone does not typically lead to immediate or noticeable symptoms. GH therapy effects are cumulative, building up over time rather than depending on a single daily injection. A brief interruption usually has minimal acute physiological consequences, meaning missing one dose is unlikely to cause any immediate adverse effects.
Steps to Take for a Missed Dose
If a dose of growth hormone is missed, do not take a double dose to compensate. Taking more than the prescribed amount can lead to an overdose and potential side effects.
The general guidance is to take the missed dose as soon as it is remembered, unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. If it is close to the next scheduled injection, skip the missed dose entirely and resume the regular schedule. For some long-acting GH formulations, a specific window (e.g., up to 3 days after the original administration day) may allow taking a missed dose, after which it should be skipped. Always contact a healthcare provider or pharmacist for specific instructions, as protocols vary depending on the particular GH product and individual patient needs.
Longer-Term Effects of Irregular Dosing
While a single missed dose may have minimal immediate impact, repeatedly missing growth hormone doses or having an inconsistent dosing schedule over an extended period can hinder the therapy’s overall effectiveness. Chronic inconsistency can lead to suboptimal outcomes, particularly in children where consistent administration is important for achieving expected growth rates. Studies have shown a relationship between missed doses and reduced linear growth in children.
For adults, inconsistent dosing might lead to less improvement in body composition, bone density, or other metabolic parameters that GH therapy aims to address. Consistent adherence to the prescribed regimen is important for achieving the desired therapeutic goals over the long term. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider helps assess the therapy’s effectiveness and address any issues related to adherence.