What is human growth hormone (HGH)?

Human growth hormone (HGH or GH), also known as somatotropin, is a protein hormone naturally synthesized and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland, which stimulates growth and cell reproduction. During adolescence production of HGH is generally high. HGH levels peak somewhere between the ages of 21 and 30 and then decline when a person is in his or her 40s.

The identification, purification, and later synthesis of growth hormone are associated with Choh Hao Li, a Chinese biologist and biochemist living from 1913-1987.

GH is now produced synthetically and given to both children and adults for a variety of reasons, most often involving deficiencies of the hormone. In the last two decades, GH has also been used to enhance growth in children and adults for reasons besides growth hormone deficiency, such as HIV-associated muscle wasting or organ transplant.

As of 2004, GH has been approved by the United States (US) Food and Drug Administration for treatment of many types of short stature. As of 2005, synthetic growth hormones available in the United States included: Nutropin® (Genentech), Humatrope (Lilly), Genotropin® (Pfizer), Norditropin® (Novo), and Saizen® (Serono). The products are nearly identical in composition, efficacy, and cost, varying primarily in the formulations and delivery devices. In 2005 an Israeli company, Teva, offered Tev-Tropin in the US at a lower price. Lilly and Alkermes are developing an inhalable version that is in phase III clinical trials as of 2006.

Currently, some adults are turning to shots of growth hormone in hopes to stop aging, even as its effectiveness and safety remain unproven. Growth hormone has also been occasionally misused by athletes hoping to increase strength or muscle mass.

You should read product labels, and discuss all therapies with a qualified healthcare provider. Natural Standard information does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Human Growth hormone (HGH) is a hormone discovered in 1956 and initially, its primary action was thought regulation of growth in children. Thirty years ago, it was discovered that adults with deficient HGH compared to their peers have an increased incidence of premature heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, strokes and osteoporosis. HGH has been FDA approved for use in adults with HGH deficiency since 1996. When given to adults who’ve had formal testing to document that they’re growth hormone deficient, it is well tolerated and significantly improves quality of life. Unfortunately, it’s been abused by athletes and individuals who mistakenly think it’s a magic panacea that melts fat and builds muscle. This is not a safe use of growth hormone.

Read more in my guidebook for women, “Outliving Your Ovaries:  An Endocrinologists Reviews and Risks and Rewards of Treating Menopause with Hormone Replacement.”

http://www.outlivingyourovaries.com/