Growth Hormone Therapy: A New Approach for Kids and Adults

Long-acting growth hormone (LAGH) therapy is changing the game for people with growth hormone deficiency (GHD). It's a big step forward because it means fewer injections and better treatment adherence. In Germany, three LAGH products have hit the market: lonapegsomatropin, somapacitan, and somatrogon. The INSIGHTS-GHT registry is tracking how these are being used in real life. This isn't just about clinical trials; it's about seeing how doctors and patients are making choices outside of strict study conditions. So far, 70 kids from 15 centers and 31 adults from 6 centers are using LAGH. Most of the kids are boys, with an average age of 9. 2 years when they start LAGH. About half of these kids switched from daily GH therapy. Interestingly, 82% of them started with a dose lower than what the manufacturer suggests. For adults, 65% are male, with an average age of 38. 2 years at the start of LAGH. All adult patients switched from daily GH therapy. More than half started with the recommended dose, but 41% began with a lower dose. Before starting GH therapy, the kids had low IGF-I and IGFBP-3 levels. This shows they really needed the treatment. The registry's findings give a snapshot of how LAGH is being adopted. But it's important to keep an eye on long-term results to make sure it's effective and safe.