Administration Burden Associated With Recombinant Human Growth Hormone Treatment: Perspectives of Patients and Caregivers

Patients treated with recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) for growth hormone disorders follow a challenging treatment schedule. This study assessed patient and caregiver experiences with rhGH therapy treatment regimens. Patients 13 years or older with growth hormone deficiency and caregivers completed Web-based surveys. A total of 61 patients and 239 caregivers participated. Storage of rhGH was considered burdensome by more than a third. More than 51% considered storage "somewhat more" to "much more of a burden" relative to the burden while not traveling. "Away from home or traveling" was the most frequently endorsed reason for missing a dose. rhGH treatment while traveling is challenging because of rhGH storage burden. (C) 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.