Overview
Serostim is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat wasting or cachexia (a condition involving weight loss and muscle wasting) related to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It is prescribed to people with HIV who are experiencing involuntary weight loss and decreased physical endurance. Serostim is also known by its drug name, somatropin.

Serostim is a recombinant human growth hormone. It is believed to work by stimulating the growth of lean body mass and increasing protein synthesis, which helps counteract the loss of muscle and weight in people with HIV-related wasting.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Serostim is taken as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection once daily at bedtime. The injection sites — such as the thigh, upper arm, abdomen, or buttock — should be rotated to prevent irritation. The treatment should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Serostim include fluid retention (causing swelling), muscle pain, hypoesthesia (reduced skin sensation), arthralgia (joint pain), and discomfort in the arms or legs.

Rare but serious side effects may include increased risk of death in people with recent major surgery or acute respiratory failure, development or progression of cancer, intracranial hypertension (high pressure in the brain), severe allergic reactions, worsening of diabetes or new onset diabetes, and pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Serostim may also increase the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome and may interfere with other medications, including glucocorticoids and diabetes drugs.

For more information about this treatment, visit:
Serostim (Somatropin) for Injection, for Subcutaneous Use — EMD Serono