Somapacitan

FDA approved

Somapacitan (Sogroya) is a once-weekly growth hormone approved by the FDA in 2020 for adults with growth hormone deficiency and later for children. It replaces daily somatropin injections.

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

Somapacitan is human growth hormone with a single amino acid change and an attached albumin-binding side chain. Binding to albumin slows clearance so one weekly dose activates growth hormone receptors and raises IGF-1 similarly to daily injections.

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

Headache, back pain, joint pain, swelling, injection site reactions and upper respiratory infections.

Not for use in active cancer or in children with closed growth plates. Risks shared with other growth hormones include raised intracranial pressure, high blood sugar, slipped capital femoral epiphysis and scoliosis progression.

Who Uses Somapacitan

Adults and children with diagnosed growth hormone deficiency.