What are the side effects of children taking growth hormone

Children taking growth hormone may experience local skin reactions, joint pain, abnormal blood sugar, and other side effects, but most symptoms are mild and controllable. Growth hormone therapy requires strict adherence to medical advice and regular monitoring of growth and development indicators as well as biochemical indicators.

Local skin reactions are characterized by redness, swelling, itching, or hardening at the injection site, usually related to injection technique or individual sensitivity. Choosing the correct injection site rotation plan and using alcohol swabs for disinfection can reduce the probability of occurrence. Joint pain often occurs in the early stages of treatment and is related to the promotion of chondrocyte proliferation by growth hormone. Reducing activity appropriately can alleviate symptoms. Abnormal blood glucose includes temporary elevated fasting blood glucose, and children with obesity or family history of diabetes are at slightly higher risk. It is necessary to strengthen diet management and blood glucose monitoring.

Very few cases may present with symptoms of intracranial hypertension such as headache and vomiting, which are related to increased cerebrospinal fluid secretion caused by growth hormone. Immediate discontinuation of medication and medical attention are necessary. hypothyroidism may manifest due to increased demand for growth hormone metabolism, and thyroid hormone levels should be regularly checked during treatment. Although there is controversy over the risk of progression of idiopathic scoliosis, it is necessary to strengthen spinal morphology assessment for children with pre-existing spinal deformities. Before using growth hormone, comprehensive evaluations such as bone age determination, pituitary function examination, and tumor screening must be completed. During the treatment period, insulin-like growth factor levels, thyroid function, and spinal X-rays should be rechecked every 3-6 months. It is recommended to choose a formal medical institution for medication dispensing, and parents should master standardized subcutaneous injection techniques. Daily attention should be paid to ensuring the intake of calcium and high-quality protein, combined with vertical exercises such as skipping rope and basketball to promote healthy bone development. If symptoms such as persistent headaches, changes in vision, or excessive drinking and urination occur, timely follow-up visits should be made to adjust the treatment plan.