somatrem /sō′mətrem/ , a synthetic polypeptide growth hormone produced by recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid technology. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed for growth promotion when patients are not growing because of limited endogenous growth hormone secretion. It is also used to limit cachexia in AIDS patients undergoing antiretroviral treatment and as replacement therapy in adults with documented growth hormone deficiency. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: It is contraindicated for pediatric patients with closed epiphyses and for patients with evidence of underlying intracranial lesions, widespread trauma/multiple organ failure, or malignancy. Concurrent use with a glucocorticoid may inhibit the effects of somatrem. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among reported adverse effects are insulin resistance and hypothyroidism. The adverse effects of somatrem tend to vary with the underlying indication for its use.
