Pegvisomant
Pegvisomant is a growth hormone receptor antagonist used primarily to treat acromegaly in patients who have not responded adequately to surgery, radiation, or other medical therapies. It works by selectively binding to growth hormone receptors, blocking the action of endogenous growth hormone and thereby reducing elevated IGF-1 levels. This medication is administered as a subcutaneous injection and requires regular monitoring of serum IGF-1 and liver function.
A growth hormone receptor antagonist used to treat acromegaly by blocking growth hormone action and reducing IGF-1 levels.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- H01AX01
- RxNorm
- 278739
- Generic
- Pegvisomant
- Class
- atc-h01
- Brands
- Somavert
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of acromegaly in patients who have had inadequate response to or are not candidates for surgery, radiation, and/or other medical therapies (such as somatostatin analogs). Used for both newly diagnosed patients and those refractory to other treatments.
Pegvisomant is a genetically engineered analog of human growth hormone that has been modified to act as a receptor antagonist. It selectively binds to GH receptors on cell surfaces with high affinity, blocking endogenous GH from binding and activating the receptor. This prevents GH signal transduction, resulting in decreased hepatic production of IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor-1) and other GH-dependent parameters.
Administered via subcutaneous injection (daily or multiple times per week). Requires regular monitoring of serum IGF-1 levels to assess efficacy and adjust dosing. Liver function tests should be monitored periodically due to potential hepatotoxicity. Patients with diabetes should monitor blood glucose more closely as GH antagonism may affect glucose metabolism. Growth hormone-secreting tumor size should be monitored as pegvisomant does not reduce tumor size.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy