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TREATING AND MANAGING COMPLEX CONDITIONS



What is growth hormone deficiency (GHD)?

Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) occurs when the pituitary gland does not make enough growth hormone. It is an acquired and congenital condition.

Growth hormone deficiency may be present at birth (congenital) or develop as the result of an injury or medical condition. Although it is uncommon, growth hormone deficiency may also be diagnosed in adults.

Possible causes of growth hormone deficiency include:
  • Tumors Involving the Pituitary Gland or Hypothalamus
  • Brain Radiation Treatments for Cancer
  • Severe Head Injury
  • Estimates Indicate an Incidence Rate of GHD at 1 Case Per 3,500 Children in the United States


What to expect?

Growth hormone deficiency means more than just a “short stature.”

In fact, there are several other issues which can, and do, present themselves due to this condition:
  • Growth Rate Below the 10-25th Percentile
  • Delayed Onset of Puberty
  • Heart Strength
  • Bone Density
  • Lung Capacity
  • Immune System Function


How is growth hormone deficiency treated?

Treatment of growth hormone deficiency usually involves regular injections of human growth hormone (HGH). These injections can be given daily or monthly. Generally, treatment will last several years, although when treating children, positive results can be observed within months of the initial treatment. As with most conditions, the earlier is treatment is started directly correlates to better results. With GHD treatment, when a child is diagnosed early, they will have a much better instance of attaining normal, or near normal, adult height.


How can a specialty pharmacy help?

Kroger Specialty Pharmacy's total life care programs set a clear path to caring, compassionate GHD therapy management and support.

Kroger Specialty Pharmacy is able to provide GH patients, providers and partners with the necessary coordination of care vital to achieving successful treatment outcomes. By utilizing our expert patient care team comprised of Doctors of Pharmacy, registered pharmacists and nurses, reimbursement specialists and dedicated Patient Care Coordinators (PCCs), we are able to offer each and every patient and partner with high-quality, personalized care, ongoing patient evaluation and clinical support including frequent patient follow-up and continual education about their GHD treatment.