Saizen is injected. It is intended for long-term treatment of individuals who are growth hormone deficient. Saizen, like all synthetic somatropin, has special importance for children and adolescents whose growth failure is due to inadequate production of growth hormone. Studies have shown that somatropin usage fails to produce athletic performance enhancement despite claims to the contrary. More recently, Saizen has been used in
IVF protocols by a few physicians for female patients undergoing
infertility treatment in an attempt to increase the number and quality of
oocytes retrieved. It affects: • Tissue growth • Skeletal growth • Cell growth (especially muscle growth) • Organ growth • Metabolism • Protein metabolism • Carbohydrate metabolism • Lipid metabolism • Mineral metabolism • Connective tissue and bone metabolism Saizen usage should be performed under the regular guidance of a physician who is experienced in the diagnosis and management of
growth hormone deficiency. Individuals with inadequate secretion of growth hormone sometimes experience fasting
hypoglycemia that is improved by treatment with growth hormone. Using Saizen may decrease
glucose tolerance. Because human growth hormone may induce a state of
insulin resistance, patients should be observed for evidence of glucose intolerance. As with all human growth hormone supplementation, Saizen should be used with caution in patients with
diabetes mellitus or a family history of diabetes mellitus.