Serostim (somatropin) is a recombinant human growth hormone that has been used to treat HIV-associated wasting by helping preserve or increase lean body mass. Originally marketed by Serono, it is associated with controlled distribution and requires medical monitoring for side effects. Patients should obtain it only through licensed pharmacies or specialty distributors and confirm current manufacturer and safety labeling.

What Serostim is

Serostim is a brand of somatropin - recombinant human growth hormone (HGH) - that has been used to treat HIV-associated wasting (unintentional, clinically significant weight loss). Somatropin is produced by recombinant DNA technology and given by subcutaneous injection. It acts on metabolism and body composition to help preserve or increase lean body mass.

Approved use and clinical context

Regulatory agencies approved somatropin formulations for HIV-associated wasting after clinical trials showed benefits for weight and lean body mass in some people with advanced disease. Somatropin has also been studied for body-fat distribution problems (lipodystrophy) that can occur in people receiving some antiretroviral therapies, although results and clinical recommendations have varied.

Who makes Serostim and how it's distributed

Serostim was originally marketed by Serono. That company later became part of the organization now known in the United States and Canada as EMD Serono, a division of Merck KGaA. Many manufacturers of specialty biologic medicines operate controlled distribution programs for recombinant hormones to ensure patient safety and product traceability; historically Serostim was supplied through a restricted network and had tracking measures for dispensing.

: confirm current marketing status, manufacturer name and details of any ongoing restricted distribution or patient-program requirements.

Safety and precautions

Because somatropin is an active growth hormone, providers monitor for side effects such as joint pain, fluid retention, elevated blood glucose, and changes in cholesterol. Clinicians screen for contraindications (for example, active malignancy) and adjust treatment based on response and tolerability.

Patients should only obtain somatropin from licensed pharmacies or specialty distributors. Counterfeit or unapproved growth-hormone products pose real safety risks; verify products through your healthcare team or the manufacturer.

1: verify up-to-date safety advisories or boxed warnings that may apply to current product labeling.

Practical notes

If a clinician prescribes somatropin for HIV-associated wasting, they will explain dosing, injection technique, monitoring tests, and expected timelines for assessing benefit. Insurance coverage and patient-assistance programs vary; patients should work with their provider, pharmacist, or patient-support service to access legitimate, quality-controlled product supplies.

Bottom line

Serostim is a somatropin product used historically for HIV-associated wasting. It can increase lean mass in some patients but requires medical supervision, monitoring, and careful sourcing from authorized distributors. For the latest information on availability, manufacturer, and safety labeling, check current FDA and manufacturer resources or consult your healthcare provider.

  1. Confirm current FDA-approved indications and approval date for Serostim (somatropin) and whether it remains marketed under the Serostim brand.
  2. Verify the current manufacturer/marketing company name and regional brand (EMD Serono / Merck KGaA) and any corporate changes since Serono.
  3. Check current distribution controls, patient-support or REMS-like programs, and the latest safety labeling or boxed warnings for somatropin products used in HIV-associated wasting.
  4. Confirm any recent safety advisories or supply/availability issues affecting Serostim.

FAQs about Serostim

What is Serostim?
Serostim is a brand of somatropin, a recombinant human growth hormone used to treat HIV-associated wasting by supporting lean body mass. It is administered by subcutaneous injection.
Does Serostim cure HIV or replace antiretroviral therapy?
No. Serostim addresses wasting and body-composition issues; it does not treat HIV infection. Antiretroviral therapy remains the primary treatment for HIV.
Are there safety concerns with somatropin?
Yes. Providers monitor for side effects like fluid retention, joint pain, elevated blood sugar, and other metabolic changes. Somatropin is contraindicated in certain conditions such as active cancer and should be used under medical supervision.
Where should I get Serostim?
Obtain somatropin only from licensed pharmacies or authorized specialty distributors. Avoid counterfeit products and confirm access and coverage through your healthcare team or the manufacturer.
Has Serostim been studied for lipodystrophy?
Yes. Researchers have evaluated somatropin for antiretroviral-associated lipodystrophy, but findings have been mixed and clinical use depends on individual circumstances and current evidence.