Saizen

Saizen contains somatropin, which is a recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) produced using recombinant DNA technology. It is identical in amino acid sequence and structure to the pituitary-derived human growth hormone. It stimulates linear growth, skeletal growth, and plays a major role in metabolism, including increasing protein synthesis, mobilizing fat stores, and influencing carbohydrate metabolism.

Dosage by Body Weight

Saizen must be prescribed and monitored by a specialist. Dosage is highly individualized and calculated based on the patient's body weight or body surface area, response to therapy, and the specific indication. It is administered daily via subcutaneous injection, usually in the evening. Injection sites must be rotated to prevent local lipoatrophy.

  1. Body Weight
    Below 5 kg
    Dose
    Not routine
    Frequency
    Use only if prescribed by a pediatric endocrinologist
    Tracking Notes
    Growth hormone therapy is rarely initiated in infants weighing less than 5 kg. If prescribed, dosing is extremely precise and tailored strictly to metabolic and clinical tolerance.
  2. Body Weight
    5-7 kg
    Dose
    0.15 mg to 0.25 mg daily
    Frequency
    Once daily (subcutaneous)
    Tracking Notes
    Calculated based on typical pediatric growth hormone deficiency dosage (approx. 0.025 to 0.035 mg/kg/day). Higher target ranges may apply for Turner syndrome or renal failure.
  3. Body Weight
    8-10 kg
    Dose
    0.24 mg to 0.35 mg daily
    Frequency
    Once daily (subcutaneous)
    Tracking Notes
    Doses should be administered in the evening to mimic physiological GH secretion patterns. Regularly monitor thyroid function and glucose tolerance.
  4. Body Weight
    11-15 kg
    Dose
    0.33 mg to 0.52 mg daily
    Frequency
    Once daily (subcutaneous)
    Tracking Notes
    Adjustment in dose may be needed based on clinical response, side effects, and serum Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) concentrations.
  5. Body Weight
    16-20 kg
    Dose
    0.48 mg to 0.70 mg daily
    Frequency
    Once daily (subcutaneous)
    Tracking Notes
    Injection sites must be rotated daily. Regular pediatric endocrinology follow-ups are required to evaluate growth speed and bone maturation.

Formulation

Powder for reconstitutionSolution for injection

Purpose

Treatment of growth hormone deficiency (GHD) in children and adults, growth failure in girls with Turner syndrome, growth failure in children due to chronic renal insufficiency, and growth failure in children born small for gestational age (SGA).

Generic Name

Somatropin

Scheduled Drug

Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.

Alternatives

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. WHO references and weight bands are simplified for tracking and must not replace medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting or changing any medication.