How often and by what route is growth hormone replacement given to a child?

How often and by what route is growth hormone replacement given to a child?

• A. Daily subcutaneous injections
• B. Weekly intravenous infusions
• C. Monthly injections
• D. Daily oral tablets

Answer: (A)

Growth hormone replacement is given as daily injections under the skin. This peptide hormone would be destroyed if taken by mouth, so oral tablets aren’t effective, and daily subcutaneous dosing allows for steady absorption and dosing tailored to the child’s needs. Administering it daily—often at bedtime—also helps mirror the body’s natural nocturnal GH pulses, supporting growth. In contrast, weekly IV or monthly injections would cause large fluctuations and is impractical for ongoing therapy, so they aren’t used.

Growth hormone replacement is given as daily injections under the skin. This peptide hormone would be destroyed if taken by mouth, so oral tablets aren’t effective, and daily subcutaneous dosing allows for steady absorption and dosing tailored to the child’s needs. Administering it daily—often at bedtime—also helps mirror the body’s natural nocturnal GH pulses, supporting growth. In contrast, weekly IV or monthly injections would cause large fluctuations and is impractical for ongoing therapy, so they aren’t used.