Standard Dosage for Children
Zomacton (somatropin) for children treats growth hormone deficiency (GHD), growth failure due to chronic kidney disease (CKD), Turner syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), or idiopathic short stature (ISS). Dosage varies by condition and is weight-based, administered subcutaneously once daily. Always follow prescribing information and physician guidance, as individual adjustments depend on growth response and IGF-1 levels.
- Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD): Up to 0.16 mg/kg/week, divided into 6 or 7 doses (about 0.024 mg/kg/day).1
- Turner Syndrome: Up to 0.375 mg/kg/week, divided into 6 or 7 doses (about 0.054 mg/kg/day).1
- Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS): Up to 0.48 mg/kg/week, divided into 7 doses (about 0.068 mg/kg/day).1
- Idiopathic Short Stature (ISS): Up to 0.47 mg/kg/week, divided into 7 doses (about 0.067 mg/kg/day).1
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Before Transplant: Up to 0.35 mg/kg/week, divided into 7 doses (about 0.05 mg/kg/day).1
How Doctors Adjust Doses
Start at the lower end of the range. Monitor height velocity every 3-6 months and IGF-1 levels quarterly. Increase if response is inadequate, but cap at listed maxima to avoid side effects like glucose intolerance. For obese children, consider body surface area dosing instead.1
What If a Child Misses a Dose?
Administer as soon as possible that day, unless near the next dose. Skip if too late—do not double up. Consistent daily timing, like bedtime, improves adherence.1
Preparation and Injection Tips for Kids
Reconstitute 4 mg vial with 0.9% Bacteriostatic Water (or Bacteriostatic Sodium Chloride). Use 5 mg/1.5 mL cartridge with pen injector for easier self-administration in older children. Rotate sites (abdomen, thigh, buttock) to prevent lipohypertrophy. Store refrigerated; discard after 28 days.1
Risks and Monitoring in Pediatric Use
Common issues include injection-site reactions, headaches, or fluid retention. Screen for scoliosis before starting, especially in PWS. Long-term: Annual thyroid, glucose, and bone age checks. Not for active malignancy or critical illness.1