Insulin like-Growth Factor (IGF-1) is required for both cartilage and bone growth in children’s and the secretion of IGF is mediated by the pituitary gland. Deficiency of IGF-1 results in impaired growth and is associated with metabolic abnormalities including insulin resistance, increased adiposity and delayed wound healing. IGF-1 drugs helps in production of IGF-1 in children’s with deficiency in production of IGF-1.
The pharmaceutical company Tercica drug, Increlex against IGF-1 deficiency has been approved by the U.S. FDA to produce recombinant human IGF-1 as a long term treatment for children with severe primary IGF-1 deficiency. The results of the new recombinant drug has to be monitored as earlier IGF-1 drugs produced by pharmaceuticals like Genetech for treatment of diabetes and Cephalon pharmacies IGF-1 drug against Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis had been withdrawn due to its side effects in patients.
