Since the causes of dwarfism are complex, treatment cannot be generalized, but must identify the cause and treat the cause. Currently, the indications for genetically engineered growth hormone treatment approved by the FDA include: growth hormone deficiency, AIDS-related metabolic disease and wasting, congenital ovarian insufficiency syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, persistent postnatal dwarfism in small for gestational age children, idiopathic dwarfism, short bowel syndrome, chronic renal failure and pre-transplant growth deficiency in children, SHOX gene deficiency, etc. Genetically engineered growth hormone is effective in treating the above-mentioned causes of dwarfism, but a clear diagnosis must be made by an experienced growth specialist at a regular hospital. In addition, doctor’s guidance and management during the treatment process are very important.
Currently, there are several kinds of height enhancement drugs on the market: one is nutritional supplements, mainly calcium, vitamin D and amino acids.
Secondly, there are the growth hormone drugs that are branded as “growth hormone”. Growth hormone is a protein-based drug, which is easily destroyed by stomach acid and cannot function, therefore, any oral “growth hormone” on the market today is not sure if its ingredients are really growth hormone, and some may contain other hormones, which also accelerate the development of bone age and shorten the early closure of epiphysis. The third is genetically engineered growth hormone, which has the same structure as the body’s own growth hormone and is used within the scope of indications, and its efficacy is certain. And growth hormone is a very strict prescription drug, which cannot be sold in all pharmacies, only qualified hospitals and manufacturers can sell it. And it must be applied under the guidance of an experienced physician and with regular follow-up.