Hilma Biocare HGH 2 vials (2x 50 IU)

HGH – Human Growth Hormone

Human growth hormone, known as Human Growth Hormone or GH, is a key substance released by the anterior pituitary gland, vital for proper growth and development in humans. Levels of Growth Hormone peak during late adolescence, followed by a gradual decline in the second decade of life. For over 40 years, growth hormone has been utilized to address specific medical conditions. Recently, a surge in interest for its anti-aging and performance-enhancing effects among middle-aged individuals, adolescents, and athletes has emerged, making it one of the top three most abused substances in sports.

Understanding Human Growth Hormone

HGH, also referred to as hGH or GH, plays a critical role in cellular production, growth, and metabolism. Secreted by the anterior pituitary, this hormone collaborates with other hormones to ensure effective growth and development, peaking at puberty and declining significantly by age 40.

Pharmacology of GH

Most available GH is produced via recombinant DNA technology, and the two synthetic variations, somatropin and somatrem, exhibit similar actions. Upon injection, they mimic naturally occurring GH by binding to GH receptors, triggering a range of cellular responses. Notable effects include metabolic regulation, fluid balance, and increased muscle and skeletal mass, with levels typically rising during stress, sleep, and exercise.

Conditions Affecting GH Levels

Alterations in GH levels, whether too high or too low, can result in severe medical conditions. Excess GH may lead to acromegaly, characterized by abnormal growth and multiple health issues, or pituitary gigantism, marked by excessive height. Conversely, GH deficiency can cause significant disorders related to short stature, which can compromise overall health.

Approved Clinical Applications of HGH

The FDA has authorized several injectable HGH formulations, accessible only via a valid prescription. Initially approved in 1985 for treating growth hormone deficiency (GHD), its applications have expanded to include conditions like Prader-Willi syndrome, chronic renal insufficiency-related short stature, Turner syndrome, and intrauterine growth retardation. Additionally, it is also sanctioned for treating growth hormone deficiency due to pituitary tumors and AIDS-related wasting syndrome. Benefits of GH therapy include:

• Enhanced muscle mass and bone density
• Reduced body fat
• Improved cognitive function
• Boosted exercise performance
• Increased cardiovascular resilience

Dosing Guidelines for Growth Hormone

Administered exclusively via injection, GH is never taken orally. The dosing regimen, often based on body weight or IGF levels, ranges from 0.01-0.1 mg/kg for adults. It is available in powdered form, which must be reconstituted in saline prior to injection.

Potential Side Effects of HGH

While generally effective, GH can induce certain side effects, including:

• Generalized edema
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Joint and muscle pain
• Nerve-related issues (numbness and tingling)
• Elevated blood glucose levels

Prescription Requirements for GH

GH can only be legally prescribed for FDA-approved uses; off-label applications, such as for anti-aging and athletic enhancement, remain unapproved due to risk concerns. While some promote it as a miracle solution, potential side effects warrant careful consideration before treatment initiation.

Risks Associated with GH Use

Abuse of GH carries significant risks, including potential overdose resulting in conditions like acromegaly. Additionally, heightened cell growth may include the proliferation of unwanted cells, raising concerns about cancer development, including leukemia and prostate cancer. Less severe but notable side effects comprise fluid retention, joint discomfort, and the possibility of type 2 diabetes.

Off-Label Applications

BodybuildingWidely used for anti-aging and bodybuilding, GH remains one of the most abused substances in athletics. Although readily available, possession and distribution are illegal. Bodybuilders often combine GH with other performance-enhancing substances, complicating the assessment of its effectiveness. Its discreet nature makes detection difficult, with an unknown number of athletes confessing to its abuse. Monthly costs for GH can range from $500 to $2000, with counterfeit products posing additional risks.

Anti-Aging

Another popular off-label use of GH is for anti-aging purposes, as people seek to diminish facial lines and wrinkles. Despite the widespread desire for youthfulness, GH is not FDA-approved for anti-aging, and there is no verifiable evidence supporting its effectiveness in skin rejuvenation. The lucrative anti-aging market thrives on purported treatments, generating a $70 million industry, with genuine GH injections costing between $10,000 and $20,000 annually in specialized clinics.

Accessibility of HGH

Most obtain HGH through illegal channels, including theft from pharmacies, unscrupulous prescriptions, and smuggling from abroad. Various online pharmacies falsely offer GH without proper medical evaluations, with many individuals resorting to the black market. Despite injection being the only legitimate method of administration, many misleadingly market it as oral sprays or gels, which are poorly absorbed.

Testing Limitations

Detecting synthetic GH is a considerable challenge, as existing testing methods are limited to a 48-hour window post-injection. Athletes often inquire about testing procedures before using illicit substances.

Sermorelin

Sermorelin is an emerging drug that has been counterfeited in China, derived from the original Geref. It acts as a biological analog of growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH), promoting GH production from the anterior pituitary gland. Sermorelin is challenging to detect in blood or urine after administration, allowing many to escape detection. It requires 3-4 weeks for effects to manifest, lacks the major side effects associated with GH, and costs between $300 and $1000 monthly.

Control Regulations

The abuse of HGH has prompted federal regulations limiting its sale and distribution. The 1990 Anabolic Steroids Control Act classifies possession and distribution of GH as a criminal offense, subject to severe penalties. Additionally, efforts are underway to classify HGH as a Schedule III controlled substance. Furthermore, GH is recognized as a performance-enhancing drug by the World Anti-Doping Agency and International Olympic Committee, prohibiting its use in competitive sports.