Pegvisomant 💊

Pegvisomant

💉 Pegvisomant is a growth hormone receptor antagonist used in the treatment of acromegaly. Unlike somatostatin analogues, it does not reduce GH secretion but blocks its peripheral action 🧬. Always check the BNF for up-to-date prescribing advice.

⚙️ Mode of Action

• 🧬 Binds to growth hormone (GH) receptors → prevents receptor dimerisation & activation.
• ⬇️ Blocks hepatic production of IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1).
• Symptom control is monitored via serum IGF-1 levels 📊.

📋 Indications / Dose

• 👴 Acromegaly: Used when surgery, radiotherapy, or somatostatin analogues are insufficient.
• 💉 Dose: Titrated according to IGF-1 levels (see BNF).

🔗 Interactions

• See BNF for full list.

⚠️ Cautions

• Monitor liver function (risk of hepatitis).
• See BNF for full cautions.

🚫 Contraindications

• See BNF for details.

💊 Side Effects

• ⚠️ Hepatitis (≈1%) → LFT monitoring essential.
• Injection-site reactions 💉
• Headache 🤕
• Rare: allergic reactions 🚨

🔗 References

• British National Formulary (BNF): Pegvisomant
• Melmed S. Acromegaly pathogenesis and treatment. J Clin Invest. 2009.
• Trainer PJ et al. Safety and efficacy of long-term treatment with pegvisomant. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2009.