Endocrine patient guide
Getting ready for a growth hormone stimulation test
This 3-hour test, done in our Upper East Side office by the Uptown Pediatrics endocrine team, shows how well your child's pituitary gland makes growth hormone. Here's how to prepare, and what to expect.
Your prep checklist
- 1Nothing to eat or drink after midnight the night before, or the morning of the test. Even a small amount can give false results, and the test won't be done.
- 2Bring a distraction like a favorite game or device. We have Wi-Fi, but feel free to pre-download movies.
- 3Bring the 2 medications called into your pharmacy (Glucagon and Zofran). We'll give them in the office.
- 4Bring a snack such as juice and crackers, for right after the test. Blood sugar can dip during the test.
- 5Bring a pillow or blanket. Some children lie down and sleep during the test.
What to expect
Why is this test needed if blood was already taken?
Growth hormone is released in pulses rather than steadily through the day, so a random blood test can't tell us whether your child makes enough. During this 3-hour test, we give two medications that stimulate the pituitary gland to release growth hormone, then measure it at regular intervals.
What exactly happens during the test?
We apply numbing cream for 10 minutes, then place an IV catheter and draw baseline blood. Your child takes two medications by mouth (L-Dopa and Zofran) with a little water, then gets an intramuscular injection of Glucagon. The IV stays in for the whole test so we can draw blood without more needle sticks. Most children are surprised by how easily it goes.
Will my child feel sick?
Some children feel briefly nauseous or even vomit. The Zofran helps prevent this, and it passes soon after the test. Your child shouldn't eat until the test is complete.
What should we do afterward?
Have a light snack before leaving the office, then a light lunch. Your child can resume normal activity, but it's a long morning, so taking it easy is a good idea.
When will results be ready?
Results usually take 2 – 3 weeks. We'll call you with the results.
Questions before the test?
Call us at 212-427-0540 or send a message through the patient portal. We're happy to walk you through it.
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