The Pfizer HGH pen contains growth hormone medicine used to treat growth failure in children and growth hormone deficiency in adults. The pen should be stored in the refrigerator between 36-46 degrees Fahrenheit.
To prepare your Pfizer HGH pen:
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Take the pen out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before injecting to allow it to reach room temperature. Do not use the pen if the liquid looks cloudy, has particles, or has changed colors.
- Gather your alcohol swabs, gauze, and a sharps disposal container.
- Check the pen for cracks or damage. Do not use if damaged.
To inject your Pfizer HGH dose:
- Clean your injection site skin with an alcohol swab and let the skin air dry. Good sites are the thighs, buttocks, or lower abdomen.
- Pull off the pen cap and wipe the rubber stopper with alcohol.
- Attach a new disposable needle. Do not reuse needles.
- Dial your dose by turning the dosage knob until your prescribed dose aligns with the pointer.
- Pinch about 1 inch of skin between your thumb and fingers. Quickly insert the entire needle at a 90 degree angle.
- Slowly press the injection button all the way in until you hear a click. Hold for 5-10 seconds, then remove needle.
- Discard needle immediately into sharps container. Do not recap needle.
- Apply gentle pressure with gauze to site for a few minutes.
Things to know when using your Pfizer pen:
- Storage: Keep your pen refrigerated between uses even if it still has medicine inside. Protect it from light and freezing temperatures.
- Unused medicine: Safely throw away used pens or pens with remaining unused medicine. Do not share your medicine pen with other people.
- Missed dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible if it is within 6 hours of your scheduled dose. Otherwise, skip the dose and go back to your normal schedule. Do not double your dose.
- Traveling: When traveling, keep your pen cool in an insulated bag with ice packs. Avoid exposing it to extreme heat or freezing.
Side effects to look out for:
- Swelling, redness, bruising at the injection site
- Joint or muscle pain
- Numbness or tingling
- Rapid heartbeat
- Changes in vision
- Fatigue
- Headaches
Contact your doctor if you experience:
- Severe stomach pain
- Allergic reaction - difficulty breathing, swelling, rash
- Blood sugar changes - increased hunger/thirst, frequent urination
- Limping or hip/knee pain
- Worsening vision changes
The key to safely using your Pfizer pen is following the instructions, rotating injection sites, and properly storing your medicine. Pay attention to any side effects and contact your healthcare provider with any issues or questions. Consistent use of your growth hormone pen as prescribed by your doctor is important to control symptoms of growth hormone deficiency. Let your medical provider know if you have any difficulties managing your injections or side effects for proper recommendations and adjustments.