Wonder who offers your specific drug or treatment? Check this list for product information and more. Note: This is a partial listing of manufacturers and distributors for informational purposes only, and does not constitute an endorsement of any kind. Manufacturers and distributors
 Humatrope (somatropin) |
Humatrope is pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly's version of the human growth hormone somatropin (rDNA origin), prescribed for treatment of growth hormone deficiency and Turner Syndrome. Eli Lilly offers the hormone in a pen-shaped injection system called the "Humatropen." This site includes detailed product information, safety information, and an interactive childrens' section, among other features. | Genotropin (somatropin) |
Pfizer/Pharmacia produces the human growth hormone Genotropin (somatropin, of rDNA origin). According to Pharmacia materials, Genotropin is prescribed for children with human growth hormone deficiency and Prader-Willi Syndrome, as well as for children who are small for their gestational age. Along with detailed product information, the site features a program to help parents manage payment of growth hormone therapy. For a Genotropin safety warning issued by Pfizer/Pharmacia in 2003, see "Drug Alerts" . | Nutropin (somatropin) |
Genentech, the biotechnology company that created the first human growth hormone product, introduced Protropin in 1985. In 2002, the company began phasing out Protropin, replacing it with Nutropin (somatropin [rDNA origin]). Nutropin is offered in a variety of forms, including one called "Nutropin Depot," which allows patients to take the drug just once or twice a month, instead of in daily injections. However, some studies have found that children grow at a slower rate when they take Nutrupin Depot compared with other growth hormone products. This site offers comprehensive information about growth disorders as well as product details and treatment options. | Saizen (somatropin) |
Saizen is made by Serono, an international biotech company that produces a variety of pharmaceutical products, including a growth hormone drug specifically to address wasting in AIDS patients. Saizen is prescribed for children and adults with growth hormone deficiency, Turner Syndrome, and chronic renal failure. The drug is offered in a variety of forms, including one that delivers the drug without needles. The site offers extensive product information, as well as an overview about growth disorders and links to related organizations. | Norditropen (somatropin) |
Best known for its diabetes products, Novo Nordisk also makes Norditropen, a cartridge-based growth hormone delivery system. It recently introduced the Nordipen, which it introduces as the only premixed hGH for a pen to date. Its website has little patient information beyond product specifications and refers patients to hgfound.org and the Magic Foundation.
First published December 15, 2003
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