Setback for Growth Hormone Treatment

Geref, also known as growth hormone releasing hormone is an agent used for the diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency.  I use this medication quite frequently in my medical practice to evaluate patients for this disorder.  Earlier this week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that the maker of Geref, Serono has made a business decision to discontinue the manufacture of Geref Diagnostic (sermorelin acetate for injection), a drug used to diagnose growth disorders. According to a statement released by Serono, the active ingredient used to produce Geref Diagnostic is no longer being produced. The last day to order samples will be September 30, 2008.

This is a setback for the diagnosis of growth hormone disorders.  Other agents are available, however, in my practice, Geref has been one of the best.

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