Novo Nordisk Norditropin FlexPro 1 vial (1x 45 IU)

HGH – Human Growth Hormone

The human growth hormone is a vital hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland, crucial for healthy growth and development. Secreted since birth, levels peak during adolescence and gradually decline thereafter. While growth hormone (GH) has been prescribed for over 40 years to address specific medical conditions, recent decades have seen a surge in its popularity, especially among middle-aged individuals seeking anti-aging solutions, teenagers wanting physique enhancements, and athletes aiming to boost performance. GH ranks among the top three substances misused in sports.

What is Human Growth Hormone?

Abbreviated as HGH, hGH, and GH, this hormone drives cellular production, growth, and metabolic processes in the body. Manufactured by the anterior pituitary gland, GH works in tandem with other hormones to ensure proper human growth. Peak levels coincide with puberty, tapering off around age 40.

Growth hormone is easily accessible in health stores and through various alternative health practitioners. It’s often marketed under names like Genotropin®, Humatrope®, Norditropin®, Nutropin®, Saizen®, and Serostim®.

Pharmacology

Most available GH is produced via recombinant DNA technology, including the synthetic types somatropin and somatrem. Upon injection, these synthetic GH forms mirror naturally occurring GH, binding to receptors across different tissues to stimulate various cellular actions. GH has profound physiological effects, including metabolic regulation and muscle mass enhancement, with increased levels observed during stress, sleep, and physical activity.

Changes in GH Levels

Abnormal GH levels can lead to serious medical conditions. Excess human growth hormone may result in acromegaly or pituitary gigantism, while deficiencies can lead to growth-related health issues.

Approved Clinical Uses

The FDA has sanctioned various injectable HGH formulations, available only through licensed physicians. Initially approved in 1985 for treating short stature due to GH deficiency, additional applications include conditions such as Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome, and growth issues from pituitary tumors. Clinical evidence supports GH injections for:

• Enhanced muscle mass and bone density
• Reduced body fat
• Improved cognitive function
• Enhanced exercise performance
• Better cardiovascular stress response

Dosage

HGH is never consumed orally; it is administered via subcutaneous or intramuscular injection and rapidly enters the bloodstream. Exact dosing remains uncertain, with adult doses typically ranging from 0.01-0.1 mg/kg based on body weight and IGF levels. Available forms include powder, which is reconstituted in a saline solution before use.

Side Effects of Growth Hormone

GH can lead to various unpleasant side effects, including:

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

Prescription Requirement

Legally, GH can only be prescribed for FDA-approved purposes, though off-label uses like athletic enhancement and anti-aging therapies exist. Many off-label uses are not FDA sanctioned due to potential risks, and serious side effects must be acknowledged before starting any treatment.

Potential Risks of GH Therapy

Risks of GH therapy include overdose, excessive cell proliferation, and potential cancer development. Less serious effects are fluid retention, carpal tunnel syndrome, and joint pain. Individuals considering GH for anti-aging need to weigh the therapy’s risks against benefits carefully.

Off-Label Uses

Bodybuilding

Many athletes misuse GH for bodybuilding and anti-aging, despite its illegal status. Bodybuilders often combine multiple substances for optimal results, making it difficult to pinpoint the effectiveness of GH alone. Due to its difficulty in detection, it’s extensively misused in sports.

The costs for GH can vary widely, ranging from $500 to $2000 monthly, with risks of obtaining counterfeit products.

Anti-Aging

GH’s use in anti-aging remains unsupported by evidence, yet a substantial market for ineffective alternatives has emerged. Real GH injections can cost $10,000 to $20,000 annually, often provided within anti-aging clinics or spas.

Availability

Many obtain HGH through illicit channels, including theft from pharmacies or prescriptions for off-label purposes. Online pharmacies and black market sales contribute to its availability, but efficacy is questionable, and illegal products abound.

Testing Limitations

Detecting synthetic GH within the body poses challenges; current testing methods can only identify usage for up to 48 hours post-injection, leading athletes to capitalize on this knowledge.

Sermorelin

Sermorelin, a newer drug, acts as a growth hormone-releasing hormone analog, promoting GH production. While it avoids major GH side effects, its effectiveness diminishes without existing GH levels. A month’s supply costs between $300 and $1000.

Control Status

Due to widespread abuse, federal regulations now restrict GH’s sale and distribution. The 1990 Anabolic Steroids Control Act criminalizes possession and distribution, incurring severe penalties. GH is classified as a performance-enhancing drug by the World Anti-Doping Agency, prohibiting its use by athletes.