SAIZEN

Drug Name: SAIZEN

SAIZEN DESCRIPTION:
TROPIN - INJECTION (so-mah-TROW-pin)

COMMON SAIZEN BRAND NAME(S):
Genotropin, Humatrope, Norditropin, Nutropin, Serostim

SAIZEN SIDE EFFECTS:
Headache, fatigue or muscle pain may occur. If these symptoms continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience hip pain, knee pain or unusual weakness while using SAIZEN. Unlikely but report development of a limp, joint pain, unusual increased urination or thirst. Very unlikely but report change in the appearance or size of any mole, severe stomach pain, vomiting or vision problems. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE SAIZEN:
SAIZEN: SAIZEN is given by injection into a muscle or under the skin. It is usually given three times a week. For best results, SAIZEN must be used exactly as prescribed. It is important to understand your therapy and to follow your doctor's instructions closely. If this medicine is used for weight loss/muscle wasting, it may take 2 weeks to notice the effects of the drug. Do not use more of SAIZEN than prescribed or use it more often since the risk of side effects will be increased. Be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist any questions you may have and learn how to mix, prepare, inject your medicine and dispose of the materials. Needles and syringes are for one-time use only. Do not reuse.

SAIZEN USES:
Various brands of SAIZEN are used for either the treatment of children with growth failure or for the treatment of HIV-related weight loss or wasting.

SAIZEN PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor if you have a history of: allergies (especially drug allergies), diabetes, thyroid problems, back problems (scoliosis). SAIZEN is not recommened for use if you have any of the following medical conditions: undergoing therapy for tumors (cancer), major surgery or trauma, severe breathing problems (acute respiratory failure). Caution is advised when using in the elderly because elderly patients may be more sensitive to the drug's effects. SAIZEN should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if SAIZEN passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

SAIZEN DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take especially glucocorticoids (e.g., prednisone, hydrocortisone). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

SAIZEN OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include headache; nausea; vomiting; and bloating or swelling of ankles, feet, or hands.

SAIZEN NOTES:
Laboratory tests will be done routinely while using this medication to evaluate its effectiveness and prevent side effects. Keep all doctor's appointments and laboratory visits so your therapy can be monitored closely. It may be necessary to see your doctor several times a week.

MISSED SAIZEN DOSE:
It is important to use each dose at the scheduled time. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor who will help establish a new dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

SAIZEN STORAGE:
Consult your pharmacist and/or written manufacturer information for specific storage requirements. It is critical to follow those instructions closely. Do not freeze. Properly discard any unused medication after the expiration date marked on the label.