Does getting growth hormone injections for children have any side effects

The overall safety of growth hormone therapy is relatively high, but it may cause controllable side effects such as mild joint pain, blood glucose fluctuations, and thyroid dysfunction. The main risk factors include injection site reactions, endocrine metabolic effects, abnormal bone development, allergic reactions, and elevated intracranial pressure.

1. Injection site reaction:

Subcutaneous injection may cause local redness, swelling, hardening, or fat atrophy. Standardizing the rotation of injection sites can reduce the incidence rate, and using fine needles can alleviate discomfort. Most symptoms resolve on their own within 1-2 weeks, and if they persist, medical attention should be sought to adjust the injection regimen.

2. Endocrine and metabolic effects:

Growth hormone may temporarily increase blood glucose. Children with diabetes family history need to strengthen monitoring. Transient hypothyroidism may occur in the early stages of treatment, manifested as fatigue and chills, and requires thyroid hormone supplementation therapy. Regular check ups of glycated hemoglobin and thyroid function can effectively prevent and control.

3. Abnormal bone development: Excessive use of

may accelerate epiphyseal closure and actually affect final height. During the treatment period, bone age films need to be taken every six months, and dosage adjustments must strictly follow the rate of bone age progression. Children with scoliosis require additional orthopedic evaluation.

4. Allergic reactions:

Rarely do allergic symptoms such as rash and difficulty breathing occur. The allergy rate of growth hormone produced by genetic recombination technology is less than 1%, and it needs to be observed for 30 minutes after the first injection. Children with a history of protein allergy should be informed in advance [SEP]. 3. Elevated intracranial pressure:

may cause pseudo brain tumor symptoms such as headache and vomiting, which are more common in the first 3 months of treatment. Fundus examination shows that papilledema can be diagnosed, and symptoms are usually reversible after temporary reduction or discontinuation of medication. The incidence of obesity in children is relatively high. During the treatment period, it is recommended to maintain 60 minutes of moderate intensity exercise such as skipping rope and swimming daily to promote the proliferation of growth plate chondrocytes. Ensure daily intake of 500ml milk, 1 egg, and moderate red meat, supplementing protein and vitamin D. Sleep time for school-age children should not be less than 9 hours, and for prepubescent children, it should reach 10 hours. Regularly monitor changes in height and weight, and recheck insulin-like growth factor levels every 3 months. If you experience persistent headaches, joint swelling, or blurred vision, you should immediately stop taking medication and seek medical attention. Psychological support is equally important to avoid the impact of treatment stress on children's emotional development.