Is Genotropin (somatropin) used to treat Prader-Willi syndrome?
Yes. Genotropin (somatropin) is used to treat Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS). It is prescribed to address growth failure in children with PWS and to help improve body composition (for example, by increasing lean body mass and reducing fat mass) when the appropriate criteria are met. [1]
Who typically gets Genotropin for Prader-Willi syndrome?
Genotropin is used in pediatric patients with Prader-Willi syndrome who have growth failure. Treatment is generally managed by a specialist, with dosing based on the patient’s age, growth response, and other clinical factors. [1]
Are there major safety concerns with growth hormone therapy in Prader-Willi syndrome?
Growth hormone products—including Genotropin—carry important safety considerations in the PWS population. Clinicians monitor for known risks associated with somatropin therapy (such as edema, joint pain, and blood sugar changes) and also pay close attention to PWS-specific risks, including sleep-disordered breathing and worsening respiratory status. [1]
What should patients ask their doctor before starting Genotropin for PWS?
Patients and caregivers typically need to confirm that the child meets the indications and that baseline evaluations and ongoing monitoring are in place (especially for breathing/sleep issues and other risk factors) before and during treatment. [1]
Source
[1] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm?event=overview.process&ApplNo=019600