Macimorelin for diagnosing growth hormone deficiency

Patient organisation comments

Key benefits for patients identified by patient organisations include that the test itself is less invasive, quicker to perform and has reduced side effects compared with other tests. No disadvantages about possible side effects or practical difficulties were raised, apart from if there are known side effects for particular patient groups. Both patient organisations noted that macimorelin can be used for anyone who has a suspected growth hormone deficiency. One patient organisation specified that this could include people with diagnosed pituitary issues or people with severe head injury. They also noted that people with mental health issues or anxiety may particularly benefit from macimorelin because some people have refused the insulin tolerance test because of the side effects and the stress it caused them. The patient organisations did not identify any subgroups that need special consideration for using macimorelin. Both patient organisations highlighted that macimorelin is vital for patient safety and comfort and should be available for anyone who needs testing for adult growth hormone deficiency.