Endocrine
Medicines for Delayed puberty
When the signs of puberty start later than usual — often just a normal late-developing pattern, but sometimes needing assessment and, occasionally, treatment.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Delayed puberty?
Delayed puberty means that the physical changes of puberty have not begun by the age they are usually expected — broadly, by around 14 in boys and 13 in girls, though there is a wide range of normal. In many young people, especially boys, it is simply a normal variation called "constitutional delay", where puberty and the growth spurt start later than average but then proceed normally; this often runs in families (a parent may have been a "late developer").
- How it is treated: The approach begins with assessment to determine the likely cause — a history (including family history of late development), examination of pubertal stage and growth, and, where needed, blood tests, a hand X-ray to assess bone age, and other investigations.
- Self-care: Where delayed puberty relates to being underweight, under-nutrition or intensive exercise, addressing these (with support) helps.
- When to seek help: See a GP if there are no signs of puberty by around 14 in boys or 13 in girls, or if puberty starts but does not progress, for assessment and reassurance.
What it is
Delayed puberty means that the physical changes of puberty have not begun by the age they are usually expected — broadly, by around 14 in boys and 13 in girls, though there is a wide range of normal. In many young people, especially boys, it is simply a normal variation called "constitutional delay", where puberty and the growth spurt start later than average but then proceed normally; this often runs in families (a parent may have been a "late developer"). Other causes include being underweight, intensive exercise or under-nutrition, chronic illness, and, less commonly, hormonal conditions affecting the glands that drive puberty, or genetic conditions. Delayed puberty can be a source of worry and affect a young person's confidence, particularly if they feel out of step with peers. Assessment helps distinguish a normal late-developing pattern from an underlying cause that needs treatment.
How it is treated
The approach begins with assessment to determine the likely cause — a history (including family history of late development), examination of pubertal stage and growth, and, where needed, blood tests, a hand X-ray to assess bone age, and other investigations. For the common constitutional delay, reassurance is often all that is needed, as puberty will come; sometimes a short course of low-dose hormone treatment is offered to help kick-start the process and ease the psychological impact, particularly where the delay is causing significant distress. Where an underlying cause is found — such as being underweight, a chronic illness, or a hormonal or genetic condition — this is treated, which may include addressing nutrition or treating the specific condition, sometimes with longer-term hormone treatment. Support for the young person's wellbeing and confidence is important. Care is guided by a GP and, where appropriate, a specialist (paediatric endocrinologist). The reassuring message is that delayed puberty is often just a late-but-normal pattern, and where treatment is needed, it is available.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Delayed puberty
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
Where delayed puberty relates to being underweight, under-nutrition or intensive exercise, addressing these (with support) helps. Otherwise, reassurance and support for confidence and wellbeing are important, along with attending any recommended assessment.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
See a GP if there are no signs of puberty by around 14 in boys or 13 in girls, or if puberty starts but does not progress, for assessment and reassurance. Also seek advice if delayed puberty is causing significant distress.
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Delayed puberty: frequently asked questions
Is delayed puberty a problem?
Often not — in many young people, especially boys, it is a normal late-developing pattern ("constitutional delay") that runs in families and then proceeds normally. Assessment helps distinguish this from an underlying cause that needs treatment.
Can delayed puberty be treated?
Where it is constitutional delay, reassurance is often enough, though a short course of low-dose hormone treatment can help kick-start puberty if the delay is causing distress. Where an underlying cause is found, that is treated.
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Delayed puberty
- Society for Endocrinology guidance
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