Drug Guide
Somapacitan-beco
Classification
Therapeutic: Growth hormone deficiency in adults
Pharmacological: Recombinant human growth hormone
FDA Approved Indications
- Treatment of adult growth hormone deficiency
Mechanism of Action
Somapacitan-beco is a recombinant human growth hormone that stimulates overall growth and cell reproduction by activating growth hormone receptors, leading to increased IGF-1 production.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Typically administered subcutaneously once weekly, dosage individualized based on patient response and IGF-1 levels.
Pediatric: Not approved for pediatric use.
Geriatric: Dose adjustments may be necessary based on tolerability and response.
Renal Impairment: No specific adjustment recommended; monitor closely.
Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; monitor liver function.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Rapid after subcutaneous injection.
Distribution: Widely distributed throughout body tissues.
Metabolism: Broken down by proteolytic enzymes.
Excretion: Metabolites excreted mainly via urine.
Half Life: Approximately 2 days.
Contraindications
- Active malignancy
- Hypersensitivity to recombinant human growth hormone
Precautions
- Diabetes mellitus or glucose intolerance
- Potential risk of tumor growth
- Monitoring IGF-1 levels to avoid overdosage.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Injection site reactions (Common)
- Joint pain or swelling (Common)
- Edema (Common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Intracranial hypertension (Rare)
- Glucose intolerance or diabetes mellitus (Less common)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Glucocorticoids (may antagonize growth-promoting effects)
- Insulin or other antidiabetic drugs (may require dose adjustment)
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor growth response, IGF-1 levels, glucose levels, and injection site reactions.
Diagnoses:
- Risk for hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia
- Risk for injection site infection
Implementation: Administer subcutaneously once weekly as prescribed.
Evaluation: Assess for therapeutic response and adverse effects periodically.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Inject medication on the same day each week.
- Rotate injection sites to prevent lipodystrophy.
- Report any severe pain, swelling, or signs of hypersensitivity.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- Potential increased risk of neoplasm growth; monitor accordingly.
Genetic Factors: Genetic mutations affecting growth hormone receptor pathways may influence response.
Lab Test Interference: May affect IGF-1 and glucose test results.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Signs of excessive growth hormone such as joint pain, swelling, carpal tunnel syndrome, or symptoms of hypoglycemia/hyperglycemia.
Treatment: Discontinue medication, provide supportive care, and manage symptoms accordingly.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store refrigerated at 2-8°C; protect from light.
Stability: Stable for up to 30 days at room temperature (per manufacturer specifications).