Growth hormone deficiency is treated with injections of growth hormone. Most children receive injections daily; others receive it six times a week; and, a few receive it three times a week. There is usually a prompt increase in growth rate after treatment starts, which may be noticeable to the child and parent in 3 to 4 months. This faster than-normal growth rate slowly declines over time, but it continues to be greater than would occur without treatment. Many parents notice an increase in the child’s appetite and loss of body fat after treatment begins.

The treatment of growth hormone deficiency usually is carried out over several years, until the child achieves an acceptable adult height or maximum growth potential is reached. As with other conditions, children and parents may become impatient to see faster or more impressive results from therapy. They may become discouraged, even when treatment iis going according to plan. It is important to remember that growth is a slow process that is measured over months; children who expect to grow overnight when they start Deficiency will be disappointed. Your child’s doctor will discuss realistic short and long-term expectations of therapy with you.

If testing reveals other hormone deficiencies, medications are available to replace them; thyroid hormone, cortisol and sex hormones can be administered easily when found to be lacking. It is important that these hormones are taken as directed, because normal growth can occur only when all hormones are present in the proper amounts. Good nutrition and adequate rest are important for normal growth in all children.