A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Saizen is a synthetic version of the human growth hormone (hGH), prescribed for the treatment of growth hormone deficiency and certain conditions leading to short stature and growth failure. Manufactured through recombinant DNA technology, Saizen mimics the natural growth hormone produced by the pituitary gland, facilitating normal growth and development in children and adults lacking sufficient natural growth hormone.
Before you buy Saizen, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and Saizen cost.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Formula | C990H1528N262O300S7 |
License | FDA approved |
Bioavailability | Subcutaneous: 70-90% |
Legal status | Prescription only |
Chemical Name | Somatropin |
Elimination half-life | Subcutaneous: 2.1 to 3.8 hours |
Dosage (Strength) | 5 mg, 8.8 mg, 12 mg |
Pregnancy | Consult a doctor |
Brands | Saizen, Humatrope, Norditropin, Genotropin |
Protein binding | Weak (GHBP) |
PubChem CID | 16132233 |
MedlinePlus | a608034 |
ChEBI | 106736 |
ATC code | H01AC01 |
DrugBank | DB00052 |
KEGG | D00894 |
Routes of administration | Subcutaneous, Intramuscular |
Begin with a consultation with your healthcare provider to ensure Saizen is appropriate for your condition.
Saizen must be prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Follow the specific instructions for reconstitution and administration provided by your healthcare provider. Saizen is typically administered via subcutaneous injection. The Saizen dosage and frequency of administration will be determined based on individual requirements, including age, weight, and the condition being treated.
Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are necessary to monitor growth progress, adjust dosages as needed, and check for side effects.
Active Ingredient: Somatropin
Patients with known sensitivity to somatropin or any of the excipients in Saizen should not use this medication.
Individuals with active malignancy, acute critical illness, or diabetic retinopathy should avoid Saizen therapy. Caution is advised in patients with a history of intracranial hypertension, hypothyroidism, or underlying adrenal insufficiency.
The safety of Saizen during pregnancy and lactation has not been established. Use only if clearly needed and after a thorough risk-benefit analysis.
Glucocorticoids: Concurrent use may inhibit the growth-promoting effects of Saizen.
Insulin and Oral Hypoglycemics: Saizen may affect glucose tolerance; monitor blood glucose levels closely in patients with diabetes or those using insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents.
Cytochrome P450-Metabolized Drugs: Although specific interactions have not been documented, Saizen may potentially alter the metabolism of substances processed by the liver.
While Saizen is effective in treating growth hormone deficiencies, it may cause side effects in some patients. Common side effects include:
What is Saizen (Somatropin)?
Saizen is a brand of somatropin, a growth hormone used to treat children and adults with growth hormone deficiency.
How is Saizen produced?
The growth hormone (somatropin) contained in Saizen is almost the same as a human’s natural growth hormone except that it is made outside the body by a process called “recombinant DNA technology” (genetic engineering).
In what forms is Saizen available?
Saizen is available as a lyophilized powder for reconstitution and as a solution for injection in a cartridge.
Who can use Saizen?
Saizen is used to treat children and adolescents with growth hormone deficiency. It is also used to treat adults with growth hormone deficiency.
What are the clinical uses of Saizen?
Saizen is used to increase growth in children and adolescents and to treat adults with growth hormone deficiency.
How is Saizen administered?
Saizen is administered through injection.
Are there any eHealth tools associated with Saizen?
Yes, Saizen has a unique selection of eHealth tools that enable healthcare professionals to support patients along their treatment journey.
What are the potential side effects of Saizen?
As with any medication, Saizen may have side effects. It’s important to discuss these potential side effects with your healthcare provider.
Where can I get more information about Saizen?
More information about Saizen can be obtained from the product monograph or your healthcare provider.
What should I do if I experience an adverse event while using Saizen?
If you experience an adverse event while using Saizen, you should immediately report it to your healthcare provider.