Somatropin Cartridge (SOMATROPIN - INJECTION)

Instructions

This medicine will be given to you at home.

This medicine is used by injecting it into the skin. Please ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist for the correct places on your body where this medicine can be injected.

Read and make sure you understand the instructions for measuring dose and using syringe. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

The medicine needs to be mixed before being injected.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Do not shake the medicine before using.

Store new medicine in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. Do not allow them to freeze.

If the medicine becomes frozen, you will need to throw it away.

Protect medicine from light.

Do not store the medicine pen with the needle attached. Always remove the needle after each use.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Discard unused, mixed medicine after 28 days in the refrigerator.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

You or a family member can be trained to give this medicine at home.

Avoid injecting the medicine within 2 inches around the navel.

Change the location of the injection each time. Choose a location at least 1 inch from the last injection.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

This medicine may cause higher blood sugar levels or diabetes. Please follow your doctor's instructions and check your blood sugar level regularly while on this medicine.

If you have diabetes and use urine glucose tests, this medicine may cause incorrect results. Please check with your doctor before making any changes to your diabetes treatment plan.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Call your doctor right away if you notice slow or shallow breathing.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• lack of energy and tiredness
• headaches
• change in the amount of fat under the skin around the injection site
• pain, redness, swelling near injection
• muscle pain
• nausea
• weakness

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• ear problems (ringing in the ears, hearing loss)
• swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
• numbness or tingling in hands and feet
• severe or persistent headache
• fast or irregular heart beats
• high blood sugar
• high blood pressure
• pain in the joints
• seizures
• shortness of breath
• change in the size or color of a skin mole
• severe stomach or bowel pain
• symptoms of stroke (such as one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion)
• unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
• blurring or changes of vision
• severe or persistent vomiting
• sudden or unexplained weight gain

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.