Saizen®
[somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection]
For subcutaneous or intramuscular injection
Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection] is a human growth hormone produced by recombinant DNA technology. Saizen® has 191 amino acid residues and a molecular weight of 22,125 daltons. Its amino acid sequence and structure are identical to the dominant form of human pituitary growth hormone. Saizen® is produced by a mammalian cell line (mouse C127) that has been modified by the addition of the human growth hormone gene. Saizen®, with the correct three-dimensional configuration, is secreted directly through the cell membrane into the cell-culture medium for collection and purification.
Saizen® is a highly purified preparation. Biological potency is determined by measuring the increase in body weight induced in hypophysectomized rats.
Saizen® is a sterile, non-pyrogenic, white, lyophilized powder intended for subcutaneous or intramuscular injection after reconstitution with Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP (0.9% Benzyl Alcohol). The reconstituted solution has a pH of 6.5 to 8.5.
Saizen® is available in 5 mg and 8.8 mg vials. The quantitative composition per vial is:
5 mg vial:
Each vial contains 5 mg somatropin, 34.2 mg sucrose and 1.16 mg O-phosphoric acid. The pH is adjusted with sodium hydroxide or O-phosphoric acid.
8.8 mg vial:
Each vial contains 8.8 mg somatropin, 60.2 mg sucrose and 2.05 mg O-phosphoric acid. The pH is adjusted with sodium hydroxide or O-phosphoric acid.
The diluent is Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP containing 0.9% Benzyl Alcohol added as an antimicrobial preservative.
Saizen® is also available in the click.easy® reconstitution device. The quantitative composition per vial contained in the click.easy® reconstitution device is:
8.8 mg vial contained in the click.easy® device:
Each vial contains 8.8 mg somatropin, 60.2 mg sucrose and 2.05 mg O-phosphoric acid. The pH is adjusted with sodium hydroxide or O-phosphoric acid.
4 mg vial contained in the click.easy® device:
Each vial contains 4 mg somatropin, 27.3 mg sucrose and 0.9 mg O-phosphoric acid. The pH is adjusted with sodium hydroxide or O-phosphoric acid.
The diluent in the click.easy® device contains 0.3% (w/v) metacresol in Sterile Water for Injection added as an antimicrobial preservative. The reconstituted solution has a pH of 6.5 to 8.5.
Last updated on RxList: 12/26/2007
Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection] is indicated for the long-term treatment of children with growth failure due to inadequate secretion of endogenous growth hormone.
Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection] is indicated for replacement of endogenous growth hormone in adults with growth hormone deficiency who meet either of the following two criteria:
Adult Onset: Patients who have growth hormone deficiency, either alone or associated with multiple hormone deficiencies (hypopituitarism), as a result of pituitary disease, hypothalamic disease, surgery, radiation therapy, or trauma; or
Childhood Onset: Patients who were growth hormone deficient during childhood as a result of congenital, genetic, acquired, or idiopathic causes.
In general, confirmation of the diagnosis of adult growth hormone deficiency in both groups usually requires an appropriate growth hormone stimulation test. However, confirmatory growth hormone stimulation testing may not be required in patients with congenital/genetic growth hormone deficiency or multiple pituitary hormone deficiencies due to organic disease.
Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection] dosage and schedule of administration should be individualized for each patient. The recommended weekly dosage is 0.18 mg/kg of body weight. It should be divided into equal doses given either on 3 alternate days, 6 times per week or daily. The subcutaneous route of administration is preferable; intramuscular injection is also acceptable.
Treatment with Saizen® of growth failure due to growth hormone deficiency should be discontinued when the epiphyses are fused. Patients who fail to respond adequately while on Saizen® therapy should be evaluated to determine the cause of unresponsiveness.
Based on the weight-based dosing utilized in the original pivotal study described herein, the recommended dosage at the start of therapy is not more than 0.005 mg/kg given as a daily subcutaneous injection. The dosage may be increased to not more than 0.01 mg/kg/day after 4 weeks according to individual patient requirements. Clinical response, side effects, and determination of age-and gender-adjusted serum IGF-I levels may be used as guidance in dose titration.
Alternatively, taking into account more recent literature, a starting dose of approximately 0.2 mg/day (range, 0.15-0.3 mg/day) may be used without consideration of body weight. This dose can be increased gradually every 1-2 months by increments of approximately 0.1-0.2 mg/day, according to individual patient requirements based on the clinical response and serum IGF-I concentrations. During therapy, the dose should be decreased if required by the occurrence of adverse events and/or serum IGF-I levels above the age- and gender-specific normal range. Maintenance dosages vary considerably from person to person.
A lower starting dose and smaller dose increments should be considered for older patients, who are more prone to the adverse effects of somatropin than younger individuals. In addition, obese individuals are more likely to manifest adverse effects when treated with a weight-based regimen. In order to reach the defined treatment goal, estrogen-replete women may need higher doses than men. Oral estrogen administration may increase the dose requirements in women.
To prevent possible contamination, wipe the rubber vial stopper with an antiseptic solution before puncturing it with the needle. It is recommended that Saizen® be administered using sterile, disposable syringes and needles. The syringes should be of small enough volume that the prescribed dose can be drawn from the vial with reasonable accuracy.
After determining the appropriate patient dose, reconstitute each vial of Saizen® as follows: 5 mg vial with 1-3 mL of Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP (Benzyl Alcohol preserved); 8.8 mg vial with 2-3 mL of Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP (Benzyl Alcohol preserved). Approximately 10% mechanical loss can be associated with reconstitution and multidose administration. For use in patients sensitive to the diluent, see "WARNINGS."
To reconstitute Saizen®, inject the diluent into the vial of Saizen® aiming the liquid against the glass vial wall. Swirl the vial with a GENTLE rotary motion until contents are dissolved completely. DO NOT SHAKE. Because Saizen® growth hormone is a protein, shaking can result in a cloudy solution. The Saizen® solution should be clear immediately after reconstitution. DO NOT INJECT Saizen® if the reconstituted product is cloudy immediately after reconstitution or refrigeration. Occasionally, after refrigeration, small colorless particles may be present in the Saizen® solution. This is not unusual for proteins like Saizen®.
For drug preparation instructions for Saizen® click.easy® cartridges, please refer to the instructions for use provided with the click.easy® reconstitution device.
Before Reconstitution - Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection] should be stored at room temperature (15o-30oC/59o-86oF). Expiration dates are stated on the labels.
After Reconstitution - Saizen® 5 mg and 8.8 mg vials reconstituted with Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP (0.9% Benzyl Alcohol) provided should be stored under refrigeration (2°-8°C/36°-46°F) for up to 14 days.
Saizen® click.easy® cartridges reconstituted with the diluent containing 0.3% (w/v) metacresol in Sterile Water for Injection should be stored under refrigeration (2°-8°C/36°-46°F) for up to 21 days.
Avoid freezing reconstituted vials or cartridges of Saizen®.
Saizen can be administered using (1) a standard sterile, disposable syringe and needle, (2) a compatible Saizen® needle-free injection device or (3) compatible Saizen® needle injection device. For proper use, refer to the Instructions for Use provided with the administration device.
Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection] is a sterile, non-pyrogenic, white, lyophilized powder supplied in packages containing:
1 vial of 5 mg Saizen® and 1 vial of 10 mL Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP (0.9% Benzyl Alcohol) NDC 44087-1005-2
1 vial of 8.8 mg Saizen® and 1 vial of 10 mL Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP (0.9% Benzyl Alcohol) NDC 44087-1088-1
1 click.easy® cartridge of 4 mg (1.5 mg/mL) Saizen® and 2.66 mL diluent containing 0.3% (w/v) metacresol in Sterile Water for Injection NDC 44087-0015-1
5 click.easy® cartridges of 4 mg (1.5 mg/mL) Saizen® and 2.66 mL diluent containing 0.3% (w/v) metacresol in Sterile Water for Injection NDC 44087-0015-5
1 click.easy® cartridge of 8.8 mg (5.83 mg/mL) Saizen® and 1.51 mL diluent containing 0.3% (w/v) metacresol in Sterile Water for Injection NDC 44087-1080-1
5 click.easy® cartridges of 8.8mg (5.83 mg/mL) Saizen® and 1.51 mL diluent containing 0.3% (w/v) metacresol in Sterile Water for Injection NDC 44087-1080-2
1 click.easy® cartridge of 8.8 mg (8 mg/mL) Saizen® and 1.10 mL diluent containing 0.3% (w/v) metacresol in Sterile Water for Injection NDC 44087-2080-1
5 click.easy® cartridges of 8.8 mg (8 mg/mL) Saizen® and 1.10 mL diluent containing 0.3% (w/v) metacresol in Sterile Water for injection NDC 44087-2080-5
October 2007. Manufactured for: EMD Serono, Inc., Rockland, MA 02370 USA. FDA rev date: 10/31/2007
Last updated on RxList: 12/26/2007
As with all protein pharmaceuticals, a small percentage of patients may develop antibodies to the protein. Anti-growth hormone (GH) antibody capacities below 2 mg/L have not been associated with growth attenuation. In some cases when binding capacity exceeds 2 mg/L, growth attenuation has been described. In clinical studies with Saizen® involving 280 patients (204 naive and 76 transfer patients), one patient at 6 months of therapy developed anti-GH antibodies with binding capacities exceeding 2 mg/L. Despite the high binding capacity, these antibodies were not growth attenuating. The patient was subsequently shown to have a hGH-N gene defect. Thus, genetic analysis should be undertaken in any patient in whom anti-GH antibodies with high binding capacities occur. No antibodies against proteins of the host cells were detected in the sera of patients treated up to five years.
Any patient with well-documented growth hormone deficiency who fails to respond to therapy should be tested for antibodies to human growth hormone and for thyroid status.
In clinical studies in which Saizen® was administered to growth hormone deficient children, the following events were infrequently seen: local reactions at the injection site (such as pain, numbness, redness and swelling), hypothyroidism, hypoglycemia, seizures, exacerbation of preexisting psoriasis and disturbances in fluid balance.
Leukemia has been reported in a small number of growth hormone deficient patients treated with growth hormone. It is uncertain whether this increased risk is related to the pathology of growth hormone deficiency itself, growth hormone therapy, or other associated treatments such as radiation therapy for intracranial tumors. So far, epidemiological data fail to confirm the hypothesis of a relationship between growth hormone therapy and leukemia.
During the 6 month placebo-controlled study, adverse events were reported in 56 patients (93.3%) in the somatropin-treated group and 42 patients (76.4%) in the placebo-treated group. Adverse events with an incidence of ≥ 5% in Saizen®-treated patients which were more frequent in Saizen®-treated patients compared with placebo-treated patients are listed in Table 2. Arthralgia, myalgia, peripheral edema, other types of edema, carpal tunnel syndrome, paraesthesia and hypoaesthesia were common in the somatropin-treated patients and reported more frequently than in the placebo group. These types of adverse events are thought to be related to the fluid accumulating effects of somatropin. During the placebo-controlled portion of the study, approximately 10% of patients without preexisting diabetes mellitus or impaired glucose tolerance treated with somatropin manifested mild, but persistent, abnormalities of glucose tolerance, compared with none in the placebo group. During the open label phase of the study, approximately 10% of patients treated with somatropin required a small upward adjustment of thyroid hormone replacement therapy for preexisting central hypothyroidism and 1 patient was newly diagnosed with central hypothyroidism. In addition, during the open label phase of the study, when all patients were being treated with somatropin, two patients with preexisting central hypoadrenalism required upward titration of hydrocortisone maintenance therapy which was considered to be suboptimal (unrelated to intercurrent stress, surgery or disease), and 1 patient was diagnosed de novo with central adrenal insufficiency after six months of somatropin treatment. Anti-GH antibodies were not detected.
Table 2
Adverse Events with ≥ 5% Overall Incidence in Saizen®-Treated Patients
Which Were More Frequent in Saizen®-Treated Patients Compared with Placebo-Treated
Patients During a 6 Month Study
| Adverse Event | Saizen-Treated (N=60) |
Placebo (N=55) |
| Arthralgia | 14(23.3%) | 7(12.7%) |
| Headache | 11(18.3%) | 8(14.5%) |
| Influenza-like symptoms | 9(15%) | 3(5.5%) |
| Edema peripheral | 9(15%) | 2(3.7) |
| Back pain | 6(10%) | 5(9.1%) |
| Myalgia | 5(8.3%) | 2(3.6%) |
| Rhinitis | 5(8.3%) | 2(3.6%) |
| Dizziness | 4(6.7%) | 3(5.5%) |
| Upper respiratory tract infection | 4(6.7%) | 2(3.6%) |
| Paraesthesia | 4(6.7%) | 1(1.8%) |
| Hypoaesthesia | 4(6.7%) | 0 |
| Edema dependent | 3(5%) | 2(3.6%) |
| Nausea | 3(5%) | 2(3.6%) |
| Skeletal Pain | 3(5%) | 1(1.8%) |
| Carpal tunnel syndrome | 3(5%) | 1(1.8%) |
| Edema generalized | 3(5%) | 0 |
| Chest pain | 3(5%) | 0 |
| Depression | 3(5%) | 0 |
| Hypothyroidism | 3(5%) | 0 |
| Insomnia | 3(5%) | 0 |
| N = number of patients | ||
The adverse event pattern observed during the open label phase of the study was similar to the one presented above.
Somatropin inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11βHSD-1) in adipose/hepatic tissue and may significantly impact the metabolism of cortisol and cortisone. As a consequence, in patients treated with somatropin, previously undiagnosed central (secondary) hypoadrenalism may be unmasked requiring glucocorticoid replacement therapy. In addition, patients treated with glucocorticoid replacement therapy for previously diagnosed hypoadrenalism may require an increase in their maintenance or stress doses; this may be especially true for patients treated with cortisone acetate and prednisone since conversion of these drugs to their biologically active metabolites is dependent on the activity of the 11βHSD-1 enzyme.
Excessive glucocorticoid therapy may attenuate the growth promoting effects of somatropin in children. Therefore, glucocorticoid replacement therapy should be carefully adjusted in children with concomitant GH and glucocorticoid deficiency to avoid both hypoadrenalism and an inhibitory effect on growth.
There was no evidence in the controlled studies of an interaction between Saizen® and any of the drugs commonly used in the treatment of routine pediatric problems/illnesses.
Limited published data indicate that somatropin treatment increases cytochrome P450 (CP450) mediated antipyrine clearance in man. These data suggest that somatropin administration may alter the clearance of compounds known to be metabolized by CP450 liver enzymes (e.g., corticosteroids, sex steroids, anticonvulsants, cyclosporine). Careful monitoring is advisable when somatropin is administered in combination with other drugs known to be metabolized by CP450 liver enzymes. However, formal drug interaction studies have not been conducted.
In adult women on oral estrogen replacement, a larger dose of somatropin may be required to achieve the defined treatment goal (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
In patients with diabetes mellitus requiring drug therapy, the dose of insulin and/or oral agent may require adjustment when somatropin therapy is initiated (see PRECAUTIONS, General).
Last updated on RxList: 12/26/2007
There have been reports of fatalities after initiating therapy with somatropin in pediatric patients with Prader-Willi syndrome who had one or more of the following risk factors: severe obesity, history of upper airway obstruction or sleep apnea, or unidentified respiratory infection. Male patients with one or more of these factors may be at greater risk than females. Patients with Prader-Willi syndrome should be evaluated for signs of upper airway obstruction and sleep apnea before initiation of treatment with somatropin. If, during treatment with somatropin, patients show signs of upper airway obstruction (including onset of or increased snoring) and/or new onset sleep apnea, treatment should be interrupted. All patients with Prader-Willi syndrome treated with somatropin should also have effective weight control and be monitored for signs of respiratory infection, which should be diagnosed as early as possible and treated aggressively (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). Unless patients with Prader-Willi syndrome also have a diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency, Saizen® is not indicated for the long term treatment of pediatric patients who have growth failure due to genetically confirmed Prader-Willi syndrome.
Benzyl Alcohol as a preservative in Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP has been associated with toxicity in newborns. If sensitivity to the diluent occurs, Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection] may be reconstituted with Sterile Water for Injection, USP. When Saizen® is reconstituted in this manner, the reconstituted solution should be used immediately and any unused solution should be discarded.
See CONTRAINDICATIONS for information on increased mortality in patients with acute critical illness due to complications following open heart surgery, abdominal surgery or multiple accidental trauma, or those with acute respiratory failure. The safety of continuing somatropin treatment in patients receiving replacement doses for approved indications who concurrently develop these illnesses has not been established. Therefore, the potential benefit of treatment continuation with somatropin in patients having acute critical illnesses should be weighed against the potential risk.
Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection] therapy should be carried out under the regular guidance of a physician who is experienced in the diagnosis and management of pediatric patients with growth hormone deficiency or adult patients with either childhood-onset or adult- onset growth hormone deficiency.
Treatment with somatropin may decrease insulin sensitivity, particularly at higher doses in susceptible patients. As a result, previously undiagnosed impaired glucose tolerance and overt diabetes mellitus may be unmasked during somatropin treatment. Therefore, glucose levels should be monitored periodically in all patients treated with somatropin, especially in those with risk factors for diabetes mellitus, such as obesity (including obese patients with Prader-Willi syndrome), Turner syndrome, or a family history of diabetes mellitus. Patients with preexisting type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus or impaired glucose tolerance should be monitored closely during somatropin therapy. The doses of antihyperglycemic drugs (i.e., insulin or oral agents) may require adjustment when somatropin therapy is instituted in these patients.
Patients with preexisting tumors or growth hormone deficiency secondary to an intracranial lesion should be examined routinely for progression or recurrence of the underlying disease process. In pediatric patients, clinical literature has revealed no relationship between somatropin replacement therapy and central nervous system (CNS) tumor recurrence or new extracranial tumors. However, in childhood cancer survivors, an increased risk of a second neoplasm has been reported in patients treated with somatropin after their first neoplasm. Intracranial tumors, in particular meningiomas, in patients treated with radiation to the head for their first neoplasm, were the most common of these second neoplasms. In adults, it is unknown whether there is any relationship between somatropin replacement therapy and CNS tumor recurrence.
Intracranial hypertension (IH) with papilledema, visual changes, headache, nausea, and/or vomiting has been reported in a small number of patients treated with somatropin products. Symptoms usually occurred within the first eight (8) weeks after the initiation of somatropin therapy. In all reported cases, IH-associated signs and symptoms rapidly resolved after cessation of therapy or a reduction of the somatropin dose. Funduscopic examination should be performed routinely before initiating treatment with somatropin to exclude preexisting papilledema, and periodically during the course of somatropin therapy. If papilledema is observed by funduscopy during somatropin treatment, treatment should be stopped. If somatropin-induced IH is diagnosed, treatment with somatropin can be restarted at a lower dose after IH-associated signs and symptoms have resolved. Patients with Turner syndrome, chronic renal insufficiency, and Prader-Willi syndrome may be at increased risk for the development of IH.
In patients with hypopituitarism (multiple hormone deficiencies), standard hormonal replacement therapy should be monitored closely when somatropin therapy is administered.
Undiagnosed/untreated hypothyroidism may prevent an optimal response to somatropin, in particular, the growth response in children. Patients with Turner syndrome have an inherently increased risk of developing autoimmune thyroid disease and primary hypothyroidism. In patients with growth hormone deficiency, central (secondary) hypothyroidism may first become evident or worsen during somatropin treatment. Therefore, patients treated with somatropin should have periodic thyroid function tests and thyroid hormone replacement therapy should be initiated or appropriately adjusted when indicated.
Patients should be monitored carefully for any malignant transformation of skin lesions.
When somatropin is administered subcutaneously at the same site over a long period of time, tissue atrophy may result. This can be avoided by rotating the injection site.
As for any protein, local or systemic allergic reactions may occur. Parents/Patient should be informed that such reactions are possible and that prompt medical attention should be sought if allergic reactions occur.
(see PRECAUTIONS, General):
Slipped capital femoral epiphysis may occur more frequently in patients with endocrine disorders (including pediatric growth hormone deficiency and Turner syndrome) or in patients undergoing rapid growth. Any pediatric patient with the onset of a limp or complaints of hip or knee pain during somatropin therapy should be carefully evaluated.
Progression of scoliosis can occur in patients who experience rapid growth. Because somatropin increases growth rate, patients with a history of scoliosis who are treated with somatropin should be monitored for progression of scoliosis. However, somatropin has not been shown to increase the occurrence of scoliosis. Skeletal abnormalities including scoliosis are commonly seen in untreated Turner syndrome patients. Scoliosis is also commonly seen in untreated patients with Prader-Willi syndrome. Physicians should be alert to these abnormalities, which may manifest during somatropin therapy.
(see PRECAUTIONS, General):
Patients with epiphyseal closure who were treated with somatropin replacement therapy in childhood should be reevaluated according to the criteria in INDICATIONS before continuation of somatropin therapy at the reduced dose level recommended for growth hormone deficient adults. Fluid retention during somatropin replacement therapy in adults may occur. Clinical manifestations of fluid retention are usually transient and dose dependent (see ADVERSE REACTIONS).
Experience with prolonged treatment in adults is limited.
Patients being treated with Saizen® (and/or their parents) should be informed about the potential benefits and risks associated with Saizen® treatment. This information is intended to better educate patients (and caregivers); it is not a disclosure of all possible adverse or intended effects.
Patients and caregivers who will administer Saizen® should receive appropriate training and instruction on the proper use of Saizen® from the physician or other suitably qualified health care professional. A puncture-resistant container for the disposal of used syringes and needles should be strongly recommended. Patients and/or parents should be thoroughly instructed in the importance of proper disposal, and cautioned against any reuse of needles and syringes. This information is intended to aid in the safe and effective administration of the medication.
Serum levels of inorganic phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and IGF I may increase with somatropin therapy.
Long-term animal studies for carcinogenicity have not been performed with Saizen®. There is no evidence from animal studies to date of Saizen®-induced mutagenicity or impairment of fertility.
Teratogenic Effects: Pregnancy Category B. Reproduction studies have been performed in rats and rabbits at doses up to 31 and 62 times, respectively, the human (child) weekly dose based on body surface area. The results have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to Saizen®. There are, however, no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
It is not known whether Saizen® is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Saizen® is administered to a nursing woman.
The safety and effectiveness of Saizen® in patients aged 65 and over has not been evaluated in clinical studies. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the action of Saizen®, and therefore may be more prone to develop adverse reactions. A lower starting dose and smaller dose increments should be considered for older patients (see DOSING AND ADMINISTRATION).
Last updated on RxList: 12/26/2007
Short-term overdosage could lead initially to hypoglycemia and subsequently to hyperglycemia. Moreover, overdose with somatropin is likely to cause fluid retention.
Long-term overdosage could result in signs and symptoms of gigantism and/or acromegaly consistent with the known effects of excess human growth hormone.
Saizen® is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to somatropin or any of its excipients.
Saizen® reconstituted with Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP (0.9% Benzyl Alcohol) should not be administered to patients with a known sensitivity to Benzyl Alcohol (see WARNINGS).
Somatropin should not be used for growth promotion in pediatric patients with closed epiphyses.
Somatropin is contraindicated in patients with active proliferative or severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
In general, somatropin is contraindicated in the presence of active malignancy. Any pre-existing malignancy should be inactive and its treatment complete prior to instituting therapy with somatropin. Somatropin should be discontinued if there is evidence of recurrent activity. Since growth hormone deficiency may be an early sign of the presence of a pituitary tumor (or, rarely, other brain tumors), the presence of such tumors should be ruled out prior to initiation of treatment. Somatropin should not be used in patients with any evidence of progression or recurrence of an underlying intracranial tumor.
Somatropin should not be used to treat patients with acute critical illness due to complications following open heart surgery, abdominal surgery or multiple accidental trauma, or those with acute respiratory failure. Two placebo-controlled clinical trials in non-growth hormone deficient adult patients (n=522) with these conditions in intensive care units revealed a significant increase in mortality (41.9% vs. 19.3%) among somatropin-treated patients (doses 5.3-8 mg/day) compared to those receiving placebo (see WARNINGS).
Somatropin is contraindicated in patients with Prader-Willi syndrome who are severely obese or have severe respiratory impairment (see WARNINGS). Unless patients with Prader-Willi syndrome also have a diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency, Saizen® is not indicated for the long term treatment of pediatric patients who have growth failure due to genetically confirmed Prader-Willi syndrome.
Last updated on RxList: 12/26/2007
In vitro, preclinical, and clinical testing have demonstrated that Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection] is therapeutically equivalent to pituitary-derived human growth hormone. Clinical studies in normal adults also demonstrated equivalent pharmacokinetics.
Actions that have been demonstrated for Saizen®, somatrem, and/or pituitary-derived human growth hormone include:
A. Tissue Growth-
1. Skeletal Growth: Saizen® stimulates skeletal growth in prepubertal children with pituitary growth hormone deficiency. Skeletal growth is accomplished at the epiphyseal plates at the ends of long bone. Growth and metabolism of epiphyseal plate cells are directly stimulated by growth hormone and one of its mediators, insulin-like growth factor-I. Serum levels of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) are low in children and adolescents who are growth hormone deficient, but increase during treatment with Saizen®. Linear growth continues until the growth plates fuse at the end of puberty.
2. Cell Growth: Treatment with pituitary-derived human growth hormone results in an increase in both the number and the size of skeletal muscle cells.
3. Organ Growth: Growth hormone of human pituitary origin influences the size and function of internal organs and increases red cell mass. Saizen® has been shown to promote similar organ weight increase to pituitary human growth hormone in an adequate animal model.
B. Protein Metabolism-Linear growth is facilitated in part by growth hormone-stimulated protein synthesis. This is reflected by increased cellular uptake of amino acids and nitrogen retention as demonstrated by a decline in urinary nitrogen excretion and blood urea nitrogen during growth hormone therapy.
C. Carbohydrate Metabolism-Growth hormone is a modulator of carbohydrate metabolism. Children with inadequate secretion of growth hormone sometimes experience fasting hypoglycemia that is improved by treatment with growth hormone. Saizen® therapy may decrease glucose tolerance. Administration of Saizen® to normal adults and patients with growth hormone deficiency resulted in transient increases in mean serum fasting and postprandial insulin levels. However, glucose levels remained in the normal range.
D. Lipid Metabolism-Acute administration of human growth hormone to humans results in lipid mobilization. Nonesterified fatty acids increase in plasma within one hour of Saizen® administration. In growth hormone deficient patients, long-term growth hormone administration often decreases body fat. Mean cholesterol levels decreased in patients treated with Saizen®. The clinical significance of this is unknown.
E. Mineral Metabolism- Growth hormone administration results in the retention of total body potassium, phosphorus, and sodium. Serum calcium levels appear to be unaffected.
F. Connective Tissue/Bone Metabolism-Growth hormone stimulates the synthesis of chondroitin sulfate and collagen as well as the urinary excretion of hydroxyproline.
Absorption - The absolute bioavailability of recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) after subcutaneous administration ranges between 70-90%.
Distribution - The mean volume of distribution of r-hGH given to healthy volunteers was estimated to be 12.0 ± 1.08 L.
Metabolism - The metabolic fate of somatropin involves classical protein catabolism in both the liver and kidneys. In renal cells, at least a portion of the breakdown products is returned to the systemic circulation. The mean half-life of intravenous somatropin in normal males is 0.6 hours, whereas subcutaneously and intramuscularly administered somatropin has a half-life of 1.75 and 3.4 hours, respectively. The longer half-life observed after subcutaneous or intramuscular administration is due to slow absorption from the injection site.
Excretion - The mean clearance of intravenously administered r-hGH in six normal male volunteers was 14.6 ± 2.8 L/hr.
Pediatric - The pharmacokinetics of r-hGH is similar in children and adults.
Gender - No gender studies have been performed in children. In adults, the clearance of r-hGH in both men and women tends to be similar.
Race - No data are available.
Renal Insufficiency - Children and adults with chronic renal failure tend to have decreased clearance of r-hGH as compared to normals.
Hepatic Insufficiency - A reduction in r-hGH clearance has been noted in patients with hepatic dysfunction as compared with normal controls.
A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in 115 adults with GHD comparing the effects of Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection] and placebo on body composition. Patients in the active treatment arm were treated with Saizen® at an initial dose of 0.005 mg/kg/day for one month which was increased to 0.01 mg/kg/day if tolerated for the remaining five months of the study. The primary endpoint was the change from baseline in lean body mass (LBM) measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) after 6 months. Treatment with Saizen® produced significant (p < 0.001) increases from baseline in LBM compared to placebo (Table 1).
Table 1
Lean Body Mass (kg) by DXA
| Saizen® (n=52) |
Placebo (n=51) |
|
| Baseline (mean) | 47.7 | 54.0 |
| Change from baseline at 6 months (mean) | +1.9 | -0.2 |
| Treatment difference (mean) 95% confidence interval p-value |
2.1 (1.3, 2.9) < 0.001 |
|
Sixty-seven (58%) of the 115 randomized patients were male. The adjusted mean treatment difference on the increase in LBM from baseline was significantly greater in males (2.9 kg) than females (0.8 kg).
Ninety-seven (84%) of the 115 randomized patients had adult onset (AO) GHD. The adjusted mean treatment differences on the increase in LBM from baseline were not significantly different in AO GHD (2.1 kg) compared with childhood onset (CO) GHD (1.0 kg) patients. However, there were relatively few patients with CO GHD (n=18) on which to base the comparison.
Analysis of the treatment difference on the change from baseline in total fat mass (by DXA) revealed a significant decrease (p < 0.001) in the Saizen®-treated group compared to the placebo group. Saizen® also produced beneficial effects on several bone turnover markers including bone specific alkaline phosphatase, c-terminal propeptide, osteocalcin, urine deoxypyridinoline and iPTH.
One hundred and eleven patients were enrolled in an open label follow up study and treated with Saizen® for an additional 6-30 months. During this period, the beneficial effects on LBM and total fat mass achieved during the initial six months of treatment were maintained.
Last updated on RxList: 12/26/2007
Saizen®
[somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection]
For complete dosing and safety information, please refer to the Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection] Package Insert.
COMPOSITION
Each vial of Saizen® 8.8 mg contained in the 8.0 mg/mL click.easy® device contains the following ingredients:
Each vial of Saizen® 8.8 mg contained in the 5.83 mg/mL click.easy® device contains the following ingredients:
Each vial of Saizen® 4 mg contained in the 1.5 mg/mL click.easy® device contains the following ingredients:
COMPOSITION OF DILUENT
Each cartridge of diluent contained in the click.easy® reconstitution device contains the following ingredients:
8.0 mg/mL click.easy®
5.83 mg/mL click.easy®
1.5 mg/mL click.easy®
Patients with a known sensitivity to any of the above active substances or excipients should avoid using this product.
PHARMACEUTICAL FORM
Powder and diluent for solution for injection: Powder and diluent (0.3% (w/v) metacresol in water for injection) for parenteral use.
METHOD AND ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATION
The product (powder in vials) must be reconstituted with the enclosed diluent (0.3% (w/v) metacresol in water for injection) using the click.easy® reconstitution device.
The reconstituted solution is intended for subcutaneous administration (under the skin) and should be clear with no particles. If the solution contains particles, it must not be injected.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Patients should be thoroughly instructed in the reconstitution procedure.
For young children, the reconstitution process should be supervised by an adult.
For administration of Saizen® contained in the click.easy® device, please read the following instruction carefully. Please consult your doctor or nurse or pharmacist if you have any questions concerning the reconstitution process.
HOW TO PREPARE YOUR SOLUTION OF SAIZEN®
Sample Label
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L6530101C
10.Write the reconstitution date on the transparent inner label on the cartridge. This cartridge now contains the reconstituted Saizen® solution that will be used for your treatment.
Sample Label
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11. The cartridge containing the reconstituted Saizen® solution is now ready to be used (Note: Please read the instruction manual provided with the injection device for instruction on how to inject the reconstituted Saizen® solution from the cartridge).
12. The Saizen® reconstituted solution should be stored in a refrigerator (2°-8°C / 36°-46°F) and should be used within 21 days after reconstitution. Do not freeze.
13. Discard the click.easy® device containing the empty Saizen® vial safely in accordance with your local requirements. It is not necessary to remove the empty Saizen® vial from the click.easy® device prior to disposal.
Injections should be given in different parts of your body. Do not use any areas in which you feel lumps, firm knots, depressions, or pain; talk to your doctor or healthcare professional about anything you find. Clean the skin at the injection site with soap and water.
STABILITY AND STORAGE
Vials of Saizen® pre-assembled in the click.easy® reconstitution device should be stored in the original package at room temperature (15°-30°C / 59°-86°F).
Saizen® reconstituted solution should be stored in a refrigerator (2°-8°C / 36°-46°F) and should be used within 21 days after reconstitution.
Do not freeze.
HOW SUPPLIED
Saizen® contained in the click.easy® device is available in the following pack sizes:
easypod - Instructions For Use
Saizen
[somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection]
Quick Contacts
For replacement needles: Call Connections for Growth®.......800-582-7989
If easypod™ does not work properly: Call Connections for Growth.........800-582-7989
Default Settings Table
Your easypod comes programmed with the following default settings.
These settings may be changed to suit your individual preference.
Note: Clinical settings should only be changed under the guidance of your healthcare provider.
| Comfort settings | Default | Clinical settings | Default |
| Needle speed | Medium | Dose settings | |
| Injection speed | Medium | Daily dose | 0.15 mg |
| Injection depth | 6 mm | Weight | 1 kg |
| Injection time | 5 seconds | Height Posology (Pos) | 1 cm |
| 0.025 mg/kg/day or 0.7 mg/m2/day |
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| Device settings | Default | ||
| Date & Time | day/month/year | Frequency | 7 days/week |
| Sound | On | Dose adjustment | Off |
| Name | easypod | Cartridge | B (5.83 mg/mL) |
| Welcome picture | easypod | Needle type | 29 G x 12 mm |
| Language | English | Cartridge expiration | 28 days |
| Dose log | On | ||
| PIN code | 0000 |
Table of Contents
A Message about easypod™ to Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection]
Patients and their Caregivers ...................2
Section 1. Getting Started
Getting to know easypod............................................................4
First-time use of easypod ..........................................................5
Dose history and Battery status settings......................................6
Comfort settings........................................................................7
Needle speed ...........................................................................8
Injection speed..........................................................................8
Injection depth .........................................................................9
Injection time ...........................................................................9
Device settings ........................................................................10
Date & Time ...........................................................................11
Sound .....................................................................................12
Name ......................................................................................12
Welcome picture....................................... ...............................13
Language..................................................................................13
Clinical settings ........................................................................14
PIN code .................................................................................14
Dose settings ...........................................................................15
Input in mg ..............................................................................16
By weight ................................................................................16
By body surface.......................................................................17
Check settings .........................................................................17
Dose adjustment.......................................................................18
Injection settings.......................................................................20
Cartridge..................................................................................21
Needle type .............................................................................22
Cartridge expiration ..................................................................23
Dose log ..................................................................................23
Teach me - a pictorial demonstration built into easypod .............24
Section 2.
Delivering Saizen with easypod
Preparing for your injection ......................................................25
Giving your daily injection in three steps ....................................26
Step 1: Attach the needle..........................................................26
Step 2: Inject............................................................................27
Step 3: Detach the needle ........................................................28
After your injection ..................................................................29
Partial dose .............................................................................30
Section 3.
Maintenance, Care, and Handling of easypod
Traveling with easypod............................................................31
Manual removal of an in-use cartridge .....................................31
Insertion of a new cartridge or change of an empty/expired cartridge ........32
Replacing the batteries ............................................................33
Storage...................................................................................33
Replacement of easypod.........................................................34
Frequently asked questions.....................................................34
Section 4.
Technical Information about easypod.....37
A Message about easypod™ to Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection]
Patients and their Caregivers
CAUTION: Never rinse or immerse easypod or any of its parts in water.
When a needle is attached, and prior to injection, keep the needle and the base of easypod pointing down.
WARNING:
Section 1. Getting Started
Getting to know easypod™
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Section 1. Getting Started
First-time use of easypod™
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Explanation of easypod symbols
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Dose history and Battery status settings
Dose history
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Battery status
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Comfort settings
There are four Comfort settings for easypod:
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To change a Comfort setting:
Needle speed - controls how fast the needle is inserted into your skin.
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Injection speed - controls how fast your Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection] is delivered.
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Injection depth - controls how deep the needle is inserted into your skin.
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Injection time - controls how long the needle stays in your skin.
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Device settings
There are five Device settings for easypod:
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To change a Device setting:
Date & Time
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To change the time, use the "↓" key to highlight "Time". Select "Change". Use the same steps to change the time as you used to change the date.
Note: Each time the batteries are removed, easypod will prompt you to change the date and time.
Sound
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Name
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Welcome picture
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Language
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Clinical settings
There are six Clinical settings for easypod:
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To change a Clinical setting:
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Information about Clinical settings
Dose settings
There are three options in easypod for setting the dose:
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To change a Dose setting:
Input in mg - dose in milligrams
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By weight - dose per kg of body weight
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By body surface - dose per m2 of body surface
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Note: Posology ("Pos") on (16f) and (17b) is another term used for "dosing" expressed as mg/kg/day or mg/m2/day.
Check settings
This feature allows you to review the Dose settings selected.
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Dose adjustment
The Dose adjustment feature can reduce the amount of medication wasted. There are three settings to choose from: "Off", " > 50%", and "Automatic".
To change the Dose adjustment setting:
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5a. WHEN "OFF" IS SELECTED, you will be asked to confirm the daily dose.
If easypod detects that the cartridge content is less than the daily dose, you will be prompted to change the cartridge. Choose i. or ii. or iii. below:
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i. inject the full daily dose with a new cartridge; or, ii. inject the medication remaining in the current cartridge and count this partial dose as the daily dose; or, iii. complete two injections that together total the full daily dose: the first with the remaining medication in the current cartridge; and, the second, with a new cartridge (see "Partial dose", page 30). easypod will automatically calculate the dose needed for the second injection. Select "OK", or "Back" to change the dose settings (18c). |
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5b. WHEN " > 50%" IS SELECTED, the daily dose, the projected date of the last dose, and the left over medication in the cartridge will be displayed.
easypod will keep track of the amount of medication remaining in the current cartridge.
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i. if > 50% (but less than 100%) of the daily dose is remaining in the current cartridge, easypod will inject this partial dose from the current cartridge and record it as the daily dose; ii. if < 50% of the daily dose is remaining in the current cartridge, you will be prompted to change the cartridge and easypod will inject the full daily dose from the new cartridge. Select "OK", or "Back" to change the dose settings (19a). |
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5c. WHEN "AUTOMATIC" IS SELECTED, the "Dose spread" menu will open.
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Use the "↓" key to highlight the "Dose spread" setting you want (19b). easypod will calculate the dose that optimally uses the cartridge content and remains close to the daily dose. The dose will be adjusted by ± 10%, 25% or 50%, whichever is selected on the Dose spread menu. Select "OK" to see the Automatic adjustment and view the min/max daily adjusted dose (19c), or "Cancel" to change the dose settings. |
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Injection settings
There are two Injection settings for easypod:
To change an Injection setting:
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Cartridge
The dose range depends on the type of cartridge selected containing a specified concentration of Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection]. The following click.easy® cartridge concentrations are available:
IMPORTANT: The cartridge type should be selected according to your prescription.
To change the Cartridge setting:
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Needle type
easypod should only be used with Serofine™, single-use, disposable sterile needles. Serofine needles are available as a 29 G x 1/2" (12 mm) or a 30 G x 5/16" (8 mm). Choose the appropriate needle type.
To change the Needle type setting:
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Cartridge expiration
To change the Cartridge expiration setting:
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Dose log
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The Dose log keeps track of each dose injected. To change the "Dose log" setting: Open the "Clinical settings" menu → Open "Dose log" → Activate "Dose log" by highlighting "On" and deactivate by highlighting "Off" → Select "OK". The Dose history in calendar or list format uses the following color code: Green = injection completed Red = injection missed Orange = partial injection delivered Black = cartridge changed Blue = future days |
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"Teach me"- pictorial demonstration built into easypod™
See the chart below for the easypod operations demonstrated in "Teach me".
To watch "Teach me":
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| Manual Removal of empty cartridge and insertion of a new cartridge |
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| Step 1 Attach the Needle |
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| Step 2 Inject |
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| Step 3 Detach the needle |
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| Storage and Needle Disposal |
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Section 2. Delivering Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection] with easypod
Preparing for your injection
IMPORTANT: Always start by washing your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap and water. Make sure to use a clean towel when drying your hands.
1. To turn on easypod, press the power button with the "Φ " symbol and hold down until the Welcome screen appears (25a).
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Note: If your refrigerator is very cold, easypod will be cold. You may want to wait 5 to 10 minutes before turning it on, allowing easypod to adjust to room temperature.
2. Press the Start button. easypod will check the cartridge to determine whether it contains enough medication for your full-dose injection:
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3. Prepare your injection site according to the instructions given by your healthcare provider (25d).
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Giving your daily injection in three steps
Step 1: Attach the needle
A. Remove the sterility seal from a new Serofine™ needle cap (26a).
WARNING: Do not use the needle if the sterility seal is damaged or lifting. Make sure to completely remove the sterility seal.
B. Insert the needle cap into the needle cavity on easypod until it locks into place (26b). When inserted correctly, the needle cap clicks into place and easypod will beep once.
IMPORTANT: Do not continue to hold the needle cap while easypod attaches the needle.
When the needle is attached, the display will read "Needle attached Remove empty cap" (26c) and easypod will beep twice.
Note: If the needle is not attached correctly, a warning message "Check needle" (26d) will be displayed. Follow the prompts to safely detach the needle and replace with a new needle.
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C. Remove the needle cap by pushing the cap sideways (26e).
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Note: Do not throw the needle cap away. You will need it to detach the used needle after your injection.
Step 2: Inject
A. When the display reads "Place on skin Press injection button", place easypod at a right angle (90°) against your skin (27a).
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When properly positioned against the skin, easypod will beep once and the injection button on top will turn green, indicating you are ready to inject.
IMPORTANT: Do not pinch your skin at the injection site.
B. Press the green injection button once to start your injection (27b). It is not necessary to hold down the injection button.
During injection, the injection button will blink and the display will read "Injection in progress" (27c).
When the injection is complete, the injection- button light will go off and easypod will beep twice.
IMPORTANT: During the injection, hold easypod steady and always in contact with your skin. Removing easypod prior to the end of the injection will result in an incomplete injection.
C. Lift easypod from the skin. The display will read "Injection completed" and show the injected dose (27d). Select "OK" to confirm the injected dose.
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Step 3. Detach the needle
A. When the display reads "Place empty cap", insert the empty needle cap into the needle cavity until it locks into place (28a). easypod will beep once.
IMPORTANT: Make sure you insert an empty cap. Do not continue to hold the needle cap while easypod detaches the needle.
B. When the display reads "Press needle button until beep", press and hold the needle button (28b) until easypod beeps twice. The needle is now detached and inside the needle cap.
IMPORTANT: Releasing the needle button too quickly (before the two beeps) may cause the needle to detach incorrectly and a warning message to appear that reads "Check needle is detached". In this case, remove the cap and see if the needle is in the cap. If so, select "OK". If not, place the empty cap back onto easypod, select "Repeat", and follow the prompts.
C. When the needle cap is ready to be removed, the display will read "Remove cap". To remove the used needle and needle cap, push the cap sideways (28c). Dispose of the used needle safely.
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IMPORTANT: Remember to dispose of the used needle in a suitable container, as recommended by your healthcare provider.
After your injection
1. When your injection is complete, the Welcome screen will appear and the date and time of your injection will be displayed (29a).
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2. To turn off easypod, press and hold the "Power" ("Φ ") button until the display is blank.
Note: Make sure easypod is turned off to preserve the batteries.
3. Place easypod, with the cartridge containing your medication, in its storage case.
Do not remove the cartridge from easypod unless traveling (see "Manual removal of an in-use cartridge", page 31).
4. Immediately place easypod back into the refrigerator (2-8°C / 36-46°F).
WARNING: Never store easypod in the freezer.
Partial dose
If there is not enough medication in the cartridge for your full dose, the display will read "Inject partial dose?" (30a). Select "Yes" or "No" and follow the instructions below under A or B, respectively.
A. SELECT "YES" IF YOU WANT A PARTIAL DOSE
Continue your injection of the medication in the current cartridge by following the daily-injection instructions beginning on page 25.
Once the first (partial dose) injection is completed, the display will read "Second injection?" (30b). Select "Yes" or "No" and follow the instructions below under a or b, respectively.
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a. Select "Yes" if you want a second injection, to complete your full dose.
Detach the used needle from your first injection by following the instructions on page 28. Change the cartridge as instructed in the section "Insertion of a new cartridge or change of an empty/expired cartridge" on page 32. Follow the daily-injection instructions beginning on page 25.
easypod automatically calculates the dose needed for the second injection and injects this dose.
IMPORTANT: The second injection is automatically canceled if not performed within 60 minutes.
b. Select "No" if you do not want a second injection. The injection procedure is stopped and the display will read "Place empty cap". Follow the instructions to detach the needle on page 28.
B. SELECT "NO" IF YOU DO NOT WANT A PARTIAL DOSE
Follow the instructions for "Insertion of a new cartridge or change of an empty/expired cartridge" on page 32. Once the cartridge is changed, follow the daily-injection instructions beginning on page 25.
Section 3. Maintenance, Care, and Handling of easypod™
A. Traveling with easypod
Your cartridge of medication needs to be kept at a temperature between 2-8°C / 36-46°F. If possible, always store it in the refrigerator. If you need to travel with your cartridge of medication, then it should be removed from easypod and stored in an appropriate cooling container (see below "Manual removal of an in-use cartridge").
B. Manual removal of an in-use cartridge (e.g., for traveling)
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1. Select "Menu" from the Welcome screen. 2. Use the "↓" key to highlight "Remove cartridge". 3. Select "Open" (31a). 4. easypod will confirm you want the cartridge removed (31b).
5. Open the cartridge door by sliding the cartridge-door button up (31c). easypod will display the message "Insert cartridge" (31d). 6. Remove the cartridge and push closed the cartridge door (31e) until a click is heard. The display will read "Continue?". 7. Select "No". 8. Select and hold "Off" until the display is blank to turn off easypod. |
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Note: When travel is over, see "Insertion of a new cartridge or change of an empty/expired cartridge", page 32, for instructions on reinserting your click.easy® cartridge.
C. Insertion of a new cartridge or change of an empty/expired cartridge
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1. If there is no cartridge inside easypod, or no medication left in the cartridge, the display will read "Cartridge empty. Change cartridge" (32a). If the cartridge is used for longer than 21 days, the warning "Cartridge expired" will be displayed. The injection-button light will turn red and not allow an injection until the cartridge is replaced. Note: easypod has the ability to keep track of the days a cartridge has been in use, starting from the day it is inserted. IMPORTANT: easypod must be turned on and the needle detached to change an expired cartridge. 2. Open the cartridge door by sliding the cartridge-door button up (32b). The display will read "Insert cartridge" (32c). Note: easypod allows you to open the door only when there is no cartridge inside or it is empty. If the door does not open, the cartridge inside is not empty. 3. If there is an empty or expired cartridge inside easypod, remove it. Then insert a new click.easy® cartridge (32d). 4. Push closed the cartridge door until a click is heard (32e). 5. "Continue?" will be displayed each time a new cartridge is loaded (32f). 6. Select "Yes". easypod will beep once when ready. |
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WARNING: To ensure a correct dose, make sure the easypod setting is correct for the cartridge type you are using.
D. Replacing the batteries
The battery-power level is shown by bars changing from green (full), to yellow, to red (low). When the battery-power level is very low, easypod will display the warning "Replace battery" (33a).
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You will not be able to inject your next dose until the batteries are changed.
To change the batteries, follow the steps below.
*Alkaline batteries can be used in easypod and are expected to last approximately six months.
E. Storage
When containing a Saizen® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection] click.easy® cartridge, easypod should always be placed in its storage case and stored in the refrigerator (2-8°C / 36-46°F). Before storing, the needle should always be detached.
F. Cleaning easypod
As needed, clean easypod with a damp cloth and mild soap solution. Do not use harsh chemicals, cleaning solvents, strong detergents, or alcohol solutions, as these could damage easypod. Remove dirt and dust with a soft brush.
G. Replacement of easypod
easypod should be replaced after three years of use. A new easypod can be obtained through your healthcare provider or by calling Connections For Growth® (CFG), EMD Serono's patient-support program at 800-582-7989. If you experience problems with your easypod, please contact your health- care provider or CFG. You can record the date you received easypod and its serial number below.
Date Received_________________________ Serial Number_________________________
H. Frequently asked questions
IMPORTANT: In case of a problem with easypod, you should contact your healthcare provider or Connections For Growth at 800-582-7989.
What if I cannot turn on easypod?
Leave easypod at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes. A very-cold refrigerator can affect the performance of the batteries. Try turning easypod on again.
Make sure you are using the correct type of batteries and they are correctly inserted. Lithium batteries are recommended. Try inserting a new set of batteries. To turn on easypod, you need to press and hold the power button ("Φ ") until the Welcome screen appears.
What if easypod turns off unexpectedly or if it remains on the same screen?
Check to see if the batteries need to be changed "Menu" → "Battery status". If the problem persists, try new batteries or batteries of a different brand.
What if I cannot attach a needle into easypod?
Make sure you are using Serofine™ needles and that the sterility seal on the needle cap has been completely removed. Try reattaching the needle into your easypod. If you still cannot attach the needle, try a new needle.
What if I remove easypod from my skin during an injection?
If you remove easypod from your skin during an injection (blinking green light on the injection button), the injection will be interrupted and the needle automatically retracted. You can complete the injection within a time period of five minutes and inject the balance of your dose by replacing easypod onto your skin. Or, you can stop the injection, but only a partial dose will have been delivered.
What if I cannot detach a needle from my easypod?
Make sure you have used an empty needle cap to detach the needle. Try detaching the needle again. Make sure to press and hold the needle button until easypod beeps twice. Be careful not to injure yourself when handling the needle and dispose of it safely. If you still cannot detach the needle, you should contact your healthcare provider or CFG by calling 800-582-7989.
What if I lose the empty needle cap?
The empty cap is necessary to detach the used needle safely. If you no longer have an empty cap, you should contact your healthcare provider or Connections For Growth® at 800-582-7989.
What if I start a new injection within 12 hours of my last injection?
If you try to inject within 12 hours of your last injection your easypod will display a reminder "Injection completed today. Continue?" Select "Yes" if you wish to continue with the injection.
What if I drop my easypod?
easypod has a self-checking mechanism to ensure mechanical problems will not lead to dosing errors. If you have dropped easypod and it still turns on, continue use of easypod. In the event of a mechanical problem, easypod will shut down automatically.
What if I drop my easypod and the cartridge breaks?
If a cartridge breaks inside your easypod, you should stop using it immediately. The electronics or mechanics may be damaged by the liquid or pieces of broken glass. Contact your healthcare provider or CFG by calling 800-582-7989, to replace your easypod.
What if I cannot open the cartridge door?
The cartridge door can only be opened when the cartridge is empty and easypod is turned on. If you need to remove an in-use cartridge (e.g., for traveling), see "Manual removal of an in-use cartridge", page 31.
What if the date or time is not correct?
You can change the date or time on easypod. See "Date & Time", page 11.
Section 4. Technical Information about easypod™
Specifications
EMD Serono, Inc. One Technology Place Rockland, MA 02370
Model name: easypod™
Weight: 280g (10.3 oz)
Dimensions: H: 1 28mm x W: 66mm x D: 36mm (H: 5in x W: 2.6in x D: 1.4in)
Voltage supply: 6VDC
Supply: 4 x AAA/LR03; 1.5VDC batteries - Energizer Lithium Ultimate (or
e2). (Or high-quality alkaline batteries, recommended brands: Varta Power One,
Varta High Energy, Varta Maxitech, Philipps PowerLife, Duracell Procell, Duracell
Ultra M3).
Battery life: approx. 10 months with lithium batteries and 6 months with
alkaline batteries.
Serial number: number with 16 digits printed below the bar code on the device
label (under the rear cover).
Classification: MDD 93/42 CEE Class IIa 21 CFR 880.58608 Class II IP20 (easypod
not protected against water spillage)
Applied part type B
Electromagnetic compatibility in accordance with EN60601-1-2 (see EMC tables beginning next page).
Opening easypod will void any guarantee.
Repair to be performed only by authorized companies.
Explanation of easypod symbols
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Electromagnetic Compatibility Tables
Medical electrical equipment needs special precautions regarding EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) and needs to be used according to the EMC information provided below. Portable or mobile RF communications equipment (e.g., mobile phones, pagers...) can affect easypod.
easypod is intended for use in the electromagnetic environment specified below. The user should ensure that easypod is used in such an environment.
| Guidance and manufacturer's declaration - electromagnetic emission | ||
| Emissions test | Compliance | Electromagnetic environment - guidance |
| RF emissions CISPR 11 | Group 1 | easypod uses RF energy only for its internal function. Therefore, its RF emissions are very low and not likely to cause interference in nearby electronic equipment. |
| RF emissions CISPR 11 | Class B | easypod is suitable for use in all establishments, including domestic establishments and those directly connected to the public low-voltage power supply network that supplies buildings used for domestic purposes. |
| Harmonic emissions IEC 61000-3-2 | Not applicable | |
| Voltage fluctuations / flicker emissions IEC 61000-3-3 | Not applicable | |
| Guidance and manufacturer's declaration - electromagnetic immunity | |||
| Immunity test | IEC 60601 test level | Compliance level | Electromagnetic environment - guidance |
| Electrostatic discharge (ESD) IEC 61000-4-2 |
± 6 kV contact ± 8 kV air |
± 8 kV contact ± 15 kV air |
Floors should be wood, concrete or ceramic tile. If floors are covered with synthetic material, the relative humidity should be at least 30%. |
| Electrostatic transient / burst IEC 61000-4-4 | ± 2 kV for power supply lines ± 1 kV for input/output lines |
Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Surge IEC 61000-4-5 | ± 1 kV differential mode ± 2 kV common mode |
Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Voltage dips, short interruptions and voltage variations on power supply input lines IEC 61000-4-11 | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Power frequency (50/60 Hz) | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable |
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This easypod™ Instructions For Use was developed by EMD Serono, Inc., One Technology Place, Rockland, MA 02370. ©2007 EMD Serono, Inc. All rights reserved. www.saizenUS.com
Last updated on RxList: 12/26/2007
IMPORTANT NOTE: This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your health care professional. Always seek the advice of your health care professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your health care professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you.
SOMATROPIN - INJECTION
(so-mah-TROW-pin)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Genotropin, Humatrope, Norditropin, Nutropin, Serostim, Zorbtive
USES: Various brands of this medication are used for the treatment of one of the following medical conditions: growth failure, growth hormone deficiency, intestinal disorder (short bowel syndrome) or HIV-related weight loss or wasting.
Somatropin is also used to increase height in children with a certain genetic disorder (Noonan syndrome).
HOW TO USE: Some brands of this medication are given by injection into a muscle or under the skin. Some brands may only be injected under the skin. The way you inject this medicine will depend on the brand that you are using. Check with your pharmacist to ensure that the way you are injecting your medicine is correct. It is important to change the location of the injection site to avoid problem areas under the skin. For best results, this medication must be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is important to understand your therapy and to follow your doctor's instructions closely.
If this medicine is used for short bowel syndrome, consult your doctor if a special diet (high carbohydrate/lowfat) or the use of nutritional supplements may be helpful.
If this medicine is used for weight loss/muscle wasting, it may take up to 2 weeks to notice the effects of the drug. Do not use more of this medication than prescribed or use it more often since the risk of side effects will be increased.
Learn how to prepare, mix, and inject your medicine correctly. Be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist any questions you may have and follow the instructions for mixing provided with the medication. Do not shake while mixing the solution. Shaking makes the medication not work properly. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Needles and syringes are for one-time use only. Do not reuse. Throw away used needles, syringes, and medical supplies properly. Consult your pharmacist.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: development of a limp, persistent fatigue, unusual/unexplained weight gain, persistent cold intolerance, persistent slow heartbeat, fast heartbeat, ear pain/itching, hearing problems, joint/hip/knee pain, numbness/tingling, unusual increase in thirst or urination, swelling hands/ankles/feet.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: change in the appearance or size of any mole, severe headache, persistent nausea/vomiting, severe stomach pain, vision problems or changes, seizure.
Rare (possibly fatal) lung/breathing problems may be caused by this medication in children with Prader-Willi syndrome. Those at higher risk include males, severely overweight children, or those with serious lung/breathing problems ( e.g., sleep apnea, lung infections, lung disease). Children should be checked for certain breathing problems (upper airway obstruction) before and during treatment. Heavy snoring or irregular breathing during sleep (sleep apnea) are signs of airway obstruction. Tell the doctor immediately if these signs occur. Also report any signs of lung infection, such as fever, persistent cough, or trouble breathing.
A serious allergic reaction to this drug in unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, severe swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Contact your doctor for medical advice about side effects. The following numbers do not provide medical advice, but in the US you may report side effects to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 1-800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you may call Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking somatropin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to benzyl alcohol found in some brands; or if you have any other allergies.
This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: eye problems (e.g., diabetic retinopathy), major surgery or trauma, severe breathing problems (acute respiratory failure), undergoing therapy for tumors (cancer), Prader-Willi syndrome (see Side Effects section above), normal growth has stopped (closed epiphyses).
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: adrenal gland problems, diabetes or family history of diabetes, obesity, kidney disease, tumors (cancer), thyroid problems, back problems (scoliosis), a certain genetic condition (Turner syndrome).
When this medication is given to newborns, mix with sterile water for injection that does not contain a preservative. A preservative (benzyl alcohol) which may be found in the liquid used to mix this product can infrequently cause serious problems (sometimes death), if given by injection to an infant during the first months of life. The risk is greater with lower birth weight infants and is greater with increased amounts of benzyl alcohol. Symptoms include sudden gasping, low blood pressure, or a very slow heartbeat. Report these symptoms to the doctor immediately should they occur.
Caution is advised when using in the elderly because elderly patients may be more sensitive to its effects.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: drugs to treat diabetes (e.g., insulin, sulfonylureas such as glyburide), estrogen hormone replacement, glucocorticoids (e.g., prednisone, hydrocortisone).
This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include severe headache, nausea, or vomiting; sudden onset of sweating, fatigue, shakiness, confusion (hypoglycemia); or persistent swelling of hands and feet.
NOTES: Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., eye exams, thyroid function tests, glucose levels, growth hormone antibody levels) will be done routinely to monitor your response to the medication or check for side effects. Keep all medical appointments and laboratory visits so your therapy can be monitored closely. Consult your doctor for more details.
MISSED DOSE: It is important to use each dose at the scheduled time. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor who will help establish a new dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Consult your pharmacist and/or written manufacturer information for specific storage requirements. It is important to follow those instructions closely. Do not freeze. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.
Information last revised July 2008 Copyright(c) 2008 First DataBank, Inc.
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