Pfizer Genotropin GoQuick 1 vial (1x 36 IU)

HGH – Human Growth Hormone

Human growth hormone, or GH, is a vital protein hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland. It plays a crucial role in growth and development, with levels peaking during late adolescence before declining in the 20s. For over 40 years, Growth Hormone has been utilized in treating various medical conditions, but its popularity has surged in the last 30 years, particularly among middle-aged individuals seeking to combat aging, teenagers aiming for muscle growth, and athletes wanting enhanced performance. Among performance-enhancing drugs, GH abuse is alarmingly prevalent.

What is Human Growth Hormone?

Human growth hormone, also known as hGH, is responsible for stimulating cell production and metabolic activities in the body. Secreted by the anterior pituitary at the skull’s base, GH collaborates with other hormones to foster proper growth and development. It typically peaks during puberty, then significantly reduces after age 40. Growth hormone is extensively available at health food stores and spas, often marketed under various brand names like Genotropin®, Humatrope®, Norditropin®, Nutropin®, Saizen®, and Serostim®.

Pharmacology

Most GH on the market is generated using recombinant DNA technology, primarily in the forms of somatropin and somatrem. Both types replicate the biological functions of natural GH. When administered, GH binds with receptors across various tissues, initiating diverse cellular responses. Its physiological effects include metabolism regulation, electrolyte balance maintenance, and enhanced skeletal and muscle mass. GH levels naturally rise during stress, sleep, and exercise.

Conditions Affecting GH Levels

Deviations in GH levels can lead to significant medical issues. Excess human growth hormone may result in acromegaly—marked by enlarged extremities and severe health complications—or pituitary gigantism, characterized by excessive height. Conversely, GH deficiency can critically impact health, leading to conditions like short stature.

FDA-Approved Uses of GH

The FDA has sanctioned several injectable forms of HGH, available solely by prescription. First approved in 1985 for treating GH deficiency-related short stature, GH gained regulatory nods for conditions like Prader-Willi syndrome, chronic renal insufficiency-related short stature, Turner syndrome, idiopathic short stature, and intrauterine growth retardation. Additionally, GH therapy is approved for adults with AIDS wasting syndrome. Research indicates that GH injections in these cases can lead to:

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

Dosage

Growth hormone is administered exclusively via injection (subcutaneous or intramuscular). Once in the bloodstream, GH acts quickly. Dosing guidelines remain not fully established, but many physicians base them on body weight, with recommended doses typically between 0.01-0.1 mg/kg. GH comes in powdered or liquid forms, with powders requiring solubilization before injection.

Potential Side Effects of Growth Hormone

Several notable side effects may arise from GH use, including:

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

Prescription Requirements for GH

GH is legally prescribed for specific FDA-approved purposes; however, off-label uses—such as performance enhancement and anti-aging treatments—flourish. Often, the potential benefits do not outweigh the associated risks, as GH treatment can lead to serious health complications.

Risks Associated with GH Use

Abuse of GH poses significant risks, including overdose leading to severe conditions like acromegaly. The hormone’s cell growth stimulation may inadvertently encourage the proliferation of harmful cells, potentially resulting in leukemia, prostate cancer, or other tumors. Less severe side effects include fluid retention, joint discomfort, and type 2 diabetes. Individuals considering GH therapy must assess both the risks and potential benefits carefully.

Off-Label Uses

Bodybuilding One of the most common off-label applications of GH is bodybuilding and anti-aging. GH ranks among the top abused substances in sports, despite its illegal nature. Bodybuilders often pair it with other substances, complicating the issue of determining its efficacy. The high cost—ranging from $500 to $2000 monthly—combined with the prevalence of counterfeit products, makes its use risky.

Anti-Aging

GH is also sought after for anti-aging benefits, despite lacking FDA approval for such treatment. There is scant evidence supporting its effectiveness in reducing wrinkles or textural changes in skin. The enticing promises have birthed a $70 million industry of ineffective alternatives, with genuine GH injections costing between $10,000 and $20,000 annually, usually dispensed at anti-aging clinics or spas.

Availability

Many acquire HGH through illicit channels—stolen pharmacy supplies or unscrupulous physicians prescribing it off-label. Smuggling from regions like Mexico and Europe, as well as online pharmacies dispensing it without medical oversight, are also common. Notably, while the proper method of administration is injection, products claiming to be sprays or topical gels often lack efficacy due to minimal absorption rates.

Challenges in Testing

Detecting synthetic GH in the body poses significant challenges, with current techniques failing to identify it beyond 48 hours after injection. Athletes remain acutely aware of these limitations when considering illicit drug use.

Sermorelin

Sermorelin, an emerging counterfeit of the original Geref, acts as a biological analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It promotes GH production by the pituitary without exhibiting major side effects associated with GH. Sermorelin takes 3-4 weeks to manifest effects and ranges from $300 to $1000 monthly. Notably, it is ineffective for individuals lacking GH.

Control Status

The abuse of HGH has led to stringent federal regulations. The 1990 Anabolic Steroids Control Act criminalizes possession and distribution, carrying serious penalties. In 2007, legislation was proposed to classify HGH as a schedule III controlled substance, and it remains prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency and the International Olympic Committee for athletic use.