How long should growth hormone injections be administered before stopping?
Apr 19, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
Introduction
If the height growth rate is relatively slow after using growth hormone, the effect is not particularly good, and the epiphyseal plates are about to close with the patient being older in age, treatment can generally be discontinued—typically after around six months. If height increases rapidly, the epiphyseal plates remain open, and the patient is younger, treatment can usually continue until complete closure of the epiphyseal plates or until a normal height standard is reached, which may take about one year.
Generally, the duration after which growth hormone treatment can be stopped depends on several factors, including the rate of height growth, whether the epiphyseal plates have closed, and the patient's age. The treatment may last about six months or up to a year. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Around six months
If the growth rate in height is relatively slow after starting growth hormone treatment, with limited effectiveness, and if the epiphyseal plates are nearing closure, especially in older individuals such as those around 16 years of age, discontinuation of treatment may be considered after approximately six months.
2. Around one year
If the growth rate in height is relatively rapid after starting treatment, and the epiphyseal plates have not fully closed, particularly in younger individuals such as those around 10 years old, treatment may continue until complete closure of the epiphyseal plates or until the desired normal height is achieved, which may take about one year.
During growth hormone treatment, it is generally recommended to maintain adequate nutrition, engage in regular physical exercise, and ensure sufficient sleep. Additionally, if any discomfort or adverse symptoms occur, prompt medical evaluation at an endocrinology department is necessary.
