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HGH – Human growth hormone

Human growth hormone (HGH) is a vital substance produced by the anterior pituitary gland, crucial for growth and development from birth, peaking in levels during late adolescence and gradually declining thereafter. For over four decades, growth hormone has been employed to treat various medical conditions. However, a surge in demand over the past 30 years sees many seeking GH for anti-aging, bodybuilding, and enhanced athletic performance.

Understanding Human Growth Hormone

Also known as HGH, hGH, or GH, this hormone stimulates cell production, growth, and metabolic functions in the human body. Secreted by the anterior pituitary at the skull’s base, GH works with other hormones to support normal growth and development, peaking during puberty and decreasing around age 40.

Available in health food stores and spas, growth hormones are often marketed under various brand names including Genotropin®, Humatrope®, and Saizen®.

Pharmacology of GH

Most available GH is produced using recombinant DNA technology with two synthetic types: somatropin and somatrem. Both forms mimic natural GH once injected, binding to receptors across various tissues to initiate cellular activity. GH influences metabolism, fluid balance, and increases muscle mass, with levels rising during stress, sleep, and exercise.

Conditions Affecting GH Levels

GH levels can fluctuate due to medical conditions. Excess GH may lead to acromegaly, resulting in abnormal tissue growth and severe health complications, or pituitary gigantism, characterized by excessive height. Conversely, GH deficiency can cause severe health issues, including stunted growth and other related conditions.

FDA-Approved Clinical Indications for Growth Hormone

Only available through prescription, the FDA initially approved GH in 1985 for treating growth hormone deficiency (GHD) associated with short stature and related conditions such as Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome, and growth retardation due to chronic renal insufficiency. Recent approvals include GH therapy for adults with AIDS-related wasting syndrome.

• Increased muscle mass and bone density
• Reduced body fat
• Enhanced mental clarity
• Improved exercise performance
• Greater cardiovascular stress tolerance

Administration & Dosage of GH

GH is administered via injection—never orally—either subcutaneously or intramuscularly. Rapid absorption leads to effective dosing, typically based on body weight, ranging from 0.01 to 0.1 mg/kg. Available as powder or liquid, the powder must be solubilized prior to injection.

Side Effects Associated with GH

GH can produce several side effects, including:

• Generalized edema
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Joint and muscle pain
• Neuropathies (e.g., numbness and tingling)
• Increased blood glucose levels

Prescription Requirements for Growth Hormone

GH can only be legally prescribed for FDA-approved conditions; however, off-label uses such as athletic enhancement exist. Despite claims of miraculous benefits, individuals must consider the significant side effects prior to treatment.

Risks of Human Growth Hormone Usage

The risk of overdose leading to serious conditions like acromegaly is present with GH. Additionally, GH may inadvertently promote the proliferation of unwanted cells, including cancer. Less severe side effects include fluid retention and type 2 diabetes. Any consideration for GH therapy must involve careful risk assessment.

Off-Label Uses

Musculação

GH is frequently misused in bodybuilding and anti-aging. Its illegal possession and distribution alongside a cocktail of drugs complicate usage among athletes, challenging detection efforts, with costs ranging from $500 to $2000 per month.

Anti-Aging

Though many seek GH for youthful appearance preservation, it is not FDA-approved for anti-aging. Claims about reversing skin aging lack substantial evidence, despite expensive treatments marketed in this niche.

Product Availability

Many individuals acquire HGH through illegal channels or physicians prescribing off-label. Online pharmacies often engage in unethical practices, further complicating GH distribution.

Challenges in Testing GH

Detecting synthetic GH in the body is complex; current methods can only identify recent usage within 48 hours. Athletes commonly inquire about testing capabilities before using any substances.

Sermorelin

Sermorelin, akin to growth hormone releasing hormone, stimulates GH production. Despite its gradual effectiveness over weeks, it lacks major side effects associated with GH, costing $300 to $1000 per month.

Control Status of HGH

Due to rampant abuse, regulations limit GH sales, making possession illegal under the 1990 Anabolic Steroids Control Act. The substance is classified as a performance-enhancing drug, restricting athlete usage.