Question
When children receive growth hormone injections to promote height growth, can this have any interference with the body? What are the side effects of growth hormones?
Answer
Growth hormone has been proven safe and effective through testing. Common side effects include local redness, swelling, and pain at the injection site, which usually disappear on their own within 3 to 5 days. Additionally, hypothyroidism may occur, typically after 2 to 3 months of treatment. This condition can be restored to normal through oral thyroid hormone. To prevent these situations, doctors usually recommend regular follow-up visits within the first year of treatment, gradually reducing to every 3 months or once a year thereafter.