Pfizer Genotropin GoQuick 1 vial (1x 36 IU)

HGH – Human Growth Hormone

Human Growth Hormone (HGH) is a vital hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland, essential for growth and development. Growth Hormone, or GH, is secreted from birth with levels peaking in late adolescence, followed by a decline in the second decade of life. Over 40 years, this hormone has been utilized for treating specific medical conditions, yet in the past 30 years, there’s been a surge in demand as individuals seek it for anti-aging, bodybuilding, and enhanced athletic performance, making it one of the top abused substances in sports.

Understanding Human Growth Hormone

HGH, also referred to as hGH or GH, is crucial for stimulating cellular growth, metabolism, and functioning optimally within the human body. Secreted by the anterior pituitary located at the brain’s base, GH coordinates with other hormones to regulate human growth and development, reaching its peak during puberty and declining around age 40.

This hormone is widely available at health food stores, spas, and through various nutrient or alternative care practitioners, often marketed under names like Genotropin®, Humatrope®, Norditropin®, Nutropin®, Saizen®, and Serostim®.

Pharmacology of GH

Most GH produced today utilizes recombinant DNA technology, with the primary synthetic types being somatropin and somatrem. Both versions function similarly, with synthetic GH indistinguishable from naturally occurring GH once administered. GH binds to receptors across various tissues, triggering multiple physiological effects, including metabolic regulation, fluid balance, and increased muscle and skeletal mass. GH levels naturally elevate during stress, sleep, and physical activity.

Conditions Affecting GH Levels

Imbalanced GH levels can lead to serious health issues. Excess human growth hormone can result in acromegaly, featuring enlarged extremities and rapid cell growth, or pituitary gigantism, causing extreme height. Conversely, GH deficiency can lead to various forms of short stature, greatly affecting overall well-being.

Clinical Applications of GH

The FDA has various approved injectable HGH treatments, which require a prescription. Initially approved in 1985 for short stature due to GH deficiency (GHD), additional uses have emerged for conditions like Prader-Willi syndrome, chronic renal insufficiency, Turner syndrome, idiopathic short stature, and intrauterine growth retardation. GH therapy is also an approved treatment for GHD related to pituitary tumors as well as for adults experiencing AIDS-related wasting syndrome.

Evidence supporting GH injection for these conditions indicates:

• Enhanced muscle mass and bone density
• Reduction in body fat
• Improved cognitive function
• Increased exercise capacity
• Better cardiovascular response to stress/exercise

Dosage Guidelines for GH

GH is administered exclusively via injection (subcutaneous or intramuscular), as oral intake is ineffective. The absorption rate is rapid upon injection, though dosing remains somewhat ambiguous, with research suggesting dosage should consider IGF levels, while many professionals base it on body weight. Generally, adult dosing averages 0.01-0.1 mg/kg body weight, depending on product type and intended use, available in powders or liquids that must be mixed with a saline solution before use.

Potential Side Effects of GH

While beneficial, GH can introduce a range of side effects, including:

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

Prescription Necessity for GH

HGH is legally available only through a physician’s prescription for approved purposes; nonetheless, numerous off-label uses exist, such as enhancing athletic performance and anti-aging treatments. The FDA remains cautious, often denying approval due to risk versus benefit considerations, with severe side effects associated with GH therapy highlighted for prospective patients.

Risks Associated with GH Usage

Potential overdose risks are prevalent with GH, leading to serious consequences like acromegaly and possibly encouraging unwanted cell proliferation, such as cancer. Lesser-known side effects include fluid retention, carpal tunnel syndrome, joint pain, and type 2 diabetes. Individuals considering GH for anti-aging should thoroughly evaluate the associated risks of this therapy.

Off-Label Applications

Bodybuilding

Among off-label applications, GH is famously sought for bodybuilding and anti-aging. It stands out as one of the most abused substances in sports, often acquired illegally. Bodybuilders frequently combine it with a cocktail of drugs, complicating the effectiveness of any single substance due to multiple drug interactions. Due to its discreet nature, GH is difficult to detect, contributing to its abuse.

Costly and ranging from $500 to $2000 monthly, sourcing legitimate GH poses challenges, with concerns regarding counterfeit products.

Anti-Aging Pursuits

Similarly, GH is popularly sought for anti-aging, with consumers seeking youthful skin, though it lacks FDA approval for this use. Marketing hype suggests miracles that have yet to be substantiated, contributing to a $70 million industry promoting ineffective alternatives. Legitimate HGH can cost patients from $10,000 to $20,000 annually, typically administered in medical spas or anti-aging clinics.

Accessing HGH

The majority of individuals acquire HGH through illegal means—either through theft, unethical prescriptions, or illicit purchases from Mexico and Europe. Many online pharmacies sell GH, often operated by providers prescribing without a physical examination. Additionally, various ineffective formulations are marketed as alternatives, with limited absorption in non-injection forms.

Challenges in Detection

Detecting synthetic GH is complex; present techniques are effective only within 48 hours post-injection, making it challenging to monitor misuse among athletes.

Sermorelin Overview

Sermorelin, a newer compound, serves as an analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), facilitating GH production by stimulating the anterior pituitary. Lacking detectable markers in blood or urine beyond a specific timeframe, it remains under the radar for many athletes. While effective over 3-4 weeks to build strength, it cannot replace GH for patients with no natural GH production. Pricing ranges from $300-$1000 monthly.

Control Regulations

Widespread abuse of HGH has resulted in tighter federal regulations, with penalties under the 1990 Anabolic Steroids Control Act addressing illegal possession, sale, or distribution of GH. Efforts to classify HGH under schedule III have surfaced, while the World Anti-Doping Agency and International Olympic Committee categorize GH as a prohibited performance-enhancing substance, limiting its use among athletes.