Hilma Biocare HGH 2 vials (2x 50 IU)

HGH – Human Growth Hormone

Human growth hormone, or HGH, is a vital substance produced by the anterior pituitary gland, playing a crucial role in growth and development. Secreted since birth, levels peak in late adolescence and begin to decline in the 2nd decade of life. For over 40 years, Growth Hormone has been prescribed for various medical disorders. In recent decades, however, its popularity has surged, appealing to middle-aged individuals seeking anti-aging solutions, teenagers aiming for muscle growth, and athletes looking to enhance performance. Among drugs misused in sports, GH is frequently cited as a top contender.

What is Human Growth Hormone?

HGH, also known as hGH and GH, stimulates cellular production, growth, and metabolism in the body. Produced by the anterior pituitary at the skull’s base, GH collaborates with other hormones to ensure proper human growth and development. Levels reach their peak during puberty and significantly decrease around the age of 40. Growth hormone is accessible in health food stores and spas and is marketed under various brand names, including Genotropin®, Humatrope®, Norditropin®, Nutropin®, Saizen®, and Serostim®.

Farmacologie

Most available GH is produced using recombinant DNA technology, primarily in the forms of somatropin and somatrem. Both synthetic types have similar pharmacological effects. Upon injection, these forms mimic naturally occurring GH, binding to GH receptors in various tissues and promoting a range of cellular activities. GH contributes to metabolism regulation, fluid balance, and increased muscle and skeletal mass, with levels typically raised during stress, sleep, or exercise.

Conditions Affecting GH Levels

Medical conditions can arise from abnormal GH levels. Overproduction of human growth hormone may lead to acromegaly, characterized by enlarged extremities and rapid cell growth, or pituitary gigantism resulting in excessive height. Conversely, GH deficiency can result in serious health issues, including various forms of short stature.

Approved Clinical Uses of GH

The FDA has authorized several injectable preparations of HGH, available only through a licensed physician’s prescription. Initially approved in 1985 for treating GH deficiency-related short stature, additional FDA endorsements have followed for conditions like Prader-Willi syndrome, chronic renal insufficiency, Turner syndrome, idiopathic short stature, and intrauterine growth retardation. Recently, GH therapy is also sanctioned for managing growth hormone deficiency due to pituitary tumors and the wasting syndrome associated with AIDS. Evidence demonstrates that GH injections for these disorders can lead to:

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

Dosering

GH is administered exclusively through injection, either subcutaneously or intramuscularly, as oral intake is ineffective. Its action is rapid once it enters the bloodstream. While optimal dosing based on IGF levels is suggested, many physicians prescribe based on body weight, typically ranging from 0.01-0.1 mg/kg. Available in powder or liquid forms, the powder must be mixed with saline before use.

Side Effects of Growth Hormone

GH can lead to several adverse effects, including:

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

Prescription Requirement for GH

GH can only be prescribed legally for FDA-approved indications. Numerous off-label uses exist, particularly in athletic performance enhancement and anti-aging treatments. However, the FDA has yet to endorse GH therapy for these purposes, as the potential benefits do not outweigh the associated risks. Known for its severe side effects, patients should consider these risks before commencing treatment.

Potential Risks of Taking GH

Risk of overdose exists with GH therapy, potentially leading to severe conditions like acromegaly. As GH promotes cell growth, there’s a potential for cancer cell proliferation, contributing to risks of leukemia, prostate cancer, or malignancies. Less severe side effects include fluid retention, joint pain, and type 2 diabetes. Individuals contemplating GH therapy for anti-aging must evaluate treatment risks carefully.

Off-Label Use

BodybuildingMany individuals use GH off-label for anti-aging and bodybuilding, making it one of the most abused substances in sports. Though widely accessible, it’s illegal to possess or distribute. Bodybuilders often mix GH with other drugs, complicating assessments of effectiveness, as many substances are involved. The prevalence of GH abuse stems partly from its difficulty in detection. Costs for GH in bodybuilding can range from $500-$2000 per month, and the risk of counterfeit products exists.

Anti-Aging

Another common off-label use is as an anti-aging treatment. Many people seek HGH for facial rejuvenation, despite the absence of FDA approval for this purpose and the lack of scientific backing for its efficacy against wrinkles or skin texture. The rising popularity of HGH has led to a multi-million dollar market for ineffective alternatives, with consumers often investing $10,000 to $20,000 annually for genuine GH in medical settings.

Beschikbaarheid

Most people acquire HGH through illegal channels, from stolen pharmacy products to unscrupulous prescriptions by physicians. Some obtain it smuggled from abroad or from online pharmacies that bypass physician consultations. Many people also mistakenly look for GH in forms like sprays or gels, which have minimal absorption.

Limitations of Testing

The detection of synthetic GH in the body is challenging, with current methods only able to identify it for up to 48 hours post-injection. Athletes are often aware of this, and testing becomes a primary concern before using any performance-enhancing drug.

Sermoreline

Sermorelin, a new drug counterfeited in China from Geref, mimics growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), stimulating GH production. It remains undetectable in blood or urine after a specific duration, allowing athletes to evade detection. While it takes 3-4 weeks to show noticeable results, Sermorelin is less effective in individuals with no existing GH levels. Monthly costs range from $300-$1000.

Controlestatus

The abuse of HGH has prompted federal regulations limiting its sale and distribution. The 1990 Anabolic Steroids Control Act made possession or distribution of GH illegal, with penalties including fines and imprisonment. In March 2007, legislation was proposed to list HGH as a schedule III controlled substance. Presently, it is classified as a performance-enhancing drug by the World Anti-Doping Agency and the International Olympic Committee, prohibiting its use by athletes.