Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric HGH Therapy

At MetroMed, we understand how important your child’s growth and development are. For families concerned about short stature, slow growth, or genetic conditions such as Turner or Noonan syndrome, Pediatric Human Growth Hormone (HGH) therapy can be a life-changing treatment.

Here, our team of Growth Hormone Specialists in Los Angeles answers the most common questions parents ask about HGH injections for children.

1.When is Pediatric HGH Therapy recommended for children at MetroMed?

MetroMed provides Pediatric HGH therapy for children diagnosed with:

• Growth hormone deficiency (GHD)
• Noonan syndrome
• Turner syndrome
• Leri-Weil syndrome
• Children who are small for gestational age (SGA)
• Other related growth disorders

2. What are the common signs of growth hormone deficiency in children

Some of the most common signs include:

• Being significantly shorter than peers.
• Growing less than two inches per year during puberty.
• Delayed puberty.
• Extra fat in the abdomen or face.
•  Slow development of hair and teeth.

3. How is Pediatric HGH Therapy administered?

Therapy is given through injections of somatotropin (HGH), a synthetic version of natural growth hormone.

4. What growth results can families expect in the first year?

According to MetroMed, children can grow four or more inches in the first year of HGH therapy.

5. How does MetroMed determine if HGH therapy is right for a child?

An X-ray bone age study is performed to confirm that growth plates are still open before starting treatment.

6. Who leads MetroMed’s Pediatric HGH Therapy program?

The program is overseen by Dr. Martin, who brings over 20 years of experience in Pediatric HGH therapy to families in Los Angeles.

7.  What are the potential side effects of HGH therapy?

Pediatric HGH therapy is generally safe when prescribed and monitored by experienced specialists. However, some children may experience mild side effects, including:

• Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, or discomfort).
• Headaches or temporary joint or muscle pain
• Fluid retention, which may cause swelling in hands, feet, or face
• Changes in blood sugar levels in rare cases

Serious side effects are uncommon. MetroMed’s team carefully monitors children with regular check-ups, lab tests, and growth assessments to ensure therapy remains safe and effective.

8.  At what age can a child begin Pediatric HGH therapy?

Treatment can start after a child has a confirmed diagnosis and their growth plates are still open; the appropriate age depends on the individual child.

9. How long does a child usually stay on HGH therapy?

Most children continue therapy until their growth plates close, usually in adolescence.

10. Is Pediatric HGH therapy safe?

Yes. When prescribed and monitored by experienced specialists like those at MetroMed, HGH injections for children are safe and effective.

11. How quickly will parents see results?

Many parents notice growth within months. The biggest gains often occur during the first year of treatment.

12. Do all short children qualify for HGH therapy?

No. HGH therapy is only available for children with documented medical conditions such as GHD, Turner syndrome, Noonan syndrome, Leri-Weil syndrome

13. Does HGH therapy affect puberty?

HGH supports linear growth but does not trigger puberty. If puberty is delayed, other treatments may be recommended.

14. Who oversees my child’s HGH therapy at MetroMed?

At MetroMed in Studio City, Los Angeles, Dr. Martin personally oversees every child’s treatment plan. With more than 20 years of experience in Pediatric Growth Hormone therapy, Dr. Martin ensures that each child’s progress is carefully monitored, adjustments are made when necessary, and parents receive ongoing guidance throughout the process.

15. How does MetroMed tailor HGH therapy for each child?

At MetroMed, HGH therapy is fully personalized. Factors considered include:

• The child’s age, weight, and growth pattern
• The underlying diagnosis (e.g., GHD, Turner syndrome, Noonan syndrome)
•  Bone age and growth plate status
•  Response to therapy as measured by regular growth checks and lab tests

By customizing the dose and monitoring progress closely, MetroMed ensures that each child receives the most effective and safest treatment plan for their unique needs.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation with our Pediatric HGH specialists.