Somapacitan
A once-weekly albumin-binding GH derivative approved for adult and pediatric GH deficiency. A fatty-acid side chain reversibly binds albumin to extend half-life for weekly dosing.
01 Overview
Somapacitan (brand Sogroya) is a long-acting growth hormone analogue carrying a non-covalent albumin-binding fatty-acid moiety that reversibly binds endogenous albumin, prolonging circulation and enabling once-weekly injection. It was the first long-acting GH approved for adult GH deficiency.
The REAL trials demonstrated efficacy on body composition and IGF-1 comparable to daily GH in adults, and later trials supported pediatric use. It is a well-studied modern long-acting GH.
02 Mechanism
Activates the GH receptor like native GH; a reversible albumin-binding side chain slows clearance for weekly dosing.
03 Dosing
| Tier | Dose | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult GHD | 1.5–8 mg/wk | SubQ | Once weekly; titrated to IGF-1 and clinical response. |
04 Effects
| Effect | Magnitude | Evidence | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Improved body compositionDecreased visceral/truncal fat and improved lean mass in adult GHD. | reduced trunk fat vs placebo | Clinical | |
| Normalised IGF-1Raises IGF-1 into target range with weekly dosing. | comparable to daily GH | Clinical |
05 Side effects
| Effect | Severity | Frequency | Evidence | Countermeasures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peripheral oedema/arthralgiaFluid retention, joint aches — typical GH class effects. | Mild | Common | Clinical | |
| HyperglycaemiaGH-related insulin resistance. | Mild | Uncommon | Clinical |