Lonapegsomatropin

FDA approved

Lonapegsomatropin (Skytrofa) is a once-weekly growth hormone prodrug approved by the FDA in 2021 for children with growth hormone deficiency.

At a glance

Where it acts: Hormones & metabolism
Regulatory status: FDA approvedApproved by the U.S. FDA for at least one medical use.

Mechanism of Action

Unmodified somatropin is attached to a carrier through a temporary linker. Under body conditions the linker slowly breaks, releasing active growth hormone over a week, which then acts on growth hormone receptors to raise IGF-1 and promote growth.

Typical Dosage (Research)

Prescription-only medicine. Dosing is set by a physician according to the FDA-approved label and the condition being treated.

Side Effects & Risks

Viral infections, fever, cough, nausea, joint pain and injection site reactions.

Same class risks as other growth hormones: raised intracranial pressure, slipped capital femoral epiphysis, scoliosis progression, and changes in blood sugar and thyroid function.

Who Uses Lonapegsomatropin

Children 1 year and older weighing at least 11.5 kg with growth failure due to growth hormone deficiency.