Growth hormones (GH) do not just affect people‟s growth but they also have an impact on metabolic processes, immune system, fitness as well as quality of life. Since 1995, genetically engineered synthetic GH has been licensed in Germany for the treatment of adults with growth hormone deficiency (GHD). The licensing study for Genotropin (1992-1994) raised the hopes that the physical balance of patients with GHDA could be completely restored through GH treatment due to the positive therapeutic effects on the somatic and mental state of the patients.
Substitution treatment has a positive effect on metabolic parameters such as glucose metabolism, clinically manifest hypercholesterinemia and LDL/HDL ratio as much as physical status and mental wellbeing. In this study, we could not find any indication of an induction of neoplasias or recurrent pituitary gland tumours. Neither could we observe changes in the incidence of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular mortality. In order to make a more real assessment, an even longer observation period would be required. It was impossible to ascertain a specific effect of the treatment on the patients‟ life situations. After completion of the licensing study and upon continuation of the GH therapy using adequate dosages based on a median, age-related IGF-I level, there were only very few undesired events.
