HGH
Human Growth Hormone (Somatropin)
Human Growth Hormone (HGH), also known as somatropin when manufactured recombinantly, is a critical anabolic hormone that stimulates growth, cellular regeneration, and metabolism. FDA-approved for growth hormone deficiency in children and adults, Turner syndrome, and other growth disorders. HGH promotes lean muscle mass, reduces body fat, improves bone density, and enhances overall quality of life through its primary mediator, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1).
HGH Dosing Guide
Primary Benefits
- Stimulates IGF-1 production for tissue growth
- Increases lean body mass (2-4 kg typical gain)
- Reduces body fat, especially visceral adiposity
- Improves bone mineral density (5-10% annually)
- Enhances exercise capacity and strength
How It Works
Human Growth Hormone exerts its effects by binding to growth hormone receptors (GHR) throughout the body, particularly in liver, muscle, bone, and adipose tissue. This binding activates the JAK2-STAT5 signaling pathway, leading to increased transcription of IGF-1 and other growth-promoting genes. IGF-1, produced primarily in the liver, mediates most of HGH's anabolic effects through IGF-1 receptors, promoting protein synthesis, cellular proliferation, and tissue growth while enhancing lipolysis and glucose metabolism.
Quick Reference
Typical Dosage Range
Adult dosing begins at 0.15-0.3 mg daily, with monthly titration based on IGF-1 levels and clinical response. Typical maintenance ranges from 0.4-0.8 mg daily, with maximum doses up to 1.0 mg daily in some patients. Pediatric dosing is weight-based at 0.025-0.05 mg/kg/day (0.18-0.35 mg/kg/week). All dosing should target IGF-1 levels in the upper normal range for age. Evening administration is preferred to mimic natural circadian GH secretion patterns.
Administration Methods
Subcutaneous injection using insulin syringes or pre-filled pen devices. Common injection sites include abdomen (preferred), anterior thigh, deltoid, or lateral thigh. Rotate injection sites daily to prevent lipodystrophy. Evening injection (6-8 PM) is optimal to align with natural circadian rhythms. After reconstitution, use within 14-28 days when refrigerated. Allow medication to reach room temperature before injection.
What It's Used For
Human Growth Hormone (HGH), also known as somatropin when manufactured recombinantly, is a critical anabolic hormone that stimulates growth, cellular regeneration, and metabolism. FDA-approved for growth hormone deficiency in children and adults, Turner syndrome, and other growth disorders. HGH promotes lean muscle mass, reduces body fat, improves bone density, and enhances overall quality of life through its primary mediator, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1).
Muscle Growth & Recovery
- Increases lean body mass by 2-4 kg typically
- Enhances exercise capacity and strength
- Promotes cellular repair and regeneration
Fat Loss & Body Composition
- Reduces body fat, especially visceral adiposity
- Improves overall body composition
- Enhances metabolic function
Anti-Aging Benefits
- Improves skin thickness and quality
- Enhances cognitive function and mood
- Supports cardiovascular health markers
Bone Health & Medical Uses
- Improves bone mineral density by 5-10% annually
- FDA approved for multiple medical conditions
- Extensively studied safety profile (54,000+ patients)
How Much to Take
Starting Dose (Adults)
0.15-0.3 mg daily
Begin with lowest effective dose and increase gradually based on IGF-1 levels and clinical response
Maintenance Dose
0.4-0.8 mg daily
Typical maintenance range with maximum doses up to 1.0 mg daily in some patients
Frequency
Daily injection
Subcutaneous administration
Consistent timing important
Timing
Evening preferred
6-8 PM optimal
Mimics natural circadian rhythm
Adjustment
Monthly titration
Based on IGF-1 levels
Target upper normal range
How Long to Use It
Long-term Therapy
HGH is typically used as long-term hormone replacement therapy for diagnosed growth hormone deficiency. Unlike peptide cycles, HGH therapy is often continued indefinitely under medical supervision, with regular monitoring of IGF-1 levels, glucose metabolism, and clinical parameters to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Medical Supervision Required
HGH requires prescription and ongoing medical supervision. Regular blood tests monitor IGF-1 levels, glucose metabolism, and other safety parameters. Duration of therapy depends on individual medical needs and response to treatment.
Need-to-Know Information
How It Works
Human Growth Hormone exerts its effects by binding to growth hormone receptors (GHR) throughout the body, particularly in liver, muscle, bone, and adipose tissue. This binding activates the JAK2-STAT5 signaling pathway, leading to increased transcription of IGF-1 and other growth-promoting genes. IGF-1, produced primarily in the liver, mediates most of HGH's anabolic effects through IGF-1 receptors, promoting protein synthesis, cellular proliferation, and tissue growth while enhancing lipolysis and glucose metabolism.
Key Benefits
Body Composition
- 3.5 kg lean mass gain typical
- 2.4 kg fat loss on average
- Improved muscle strength
Bone & Exercise
- 5-10% bone density improvement
- 25% increase in VO2 max
- Enhanced exercise capacity
Who Should Avoid
- Active malignancy or cancer history
- Diabetic retinopathy (proliferative or severe)
- Critical illness or acute respiratory failure
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Common Side Effects
- Joint pain and stiffness (most common)
- Peripheral edema (fluid retention)
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Increased insulin resistance
Storage & Injection
Storage Requirements
Refrigerated storage required.
Store at 36-46°F (2-8°C). Available as lyophilized powder or pre-filled pens. After reconstitution, use within 14-28 days when refrigerated. Allow to reach room temperature before injection.
Preparation Tips
- Handle gently to avoid protein damage
- Avoid shaking - swirl gently if needed
- Check for particles before injection
- Use sterile technique throughout
Injection Sites
Subcutaneous areas:
• Abdomen (preferred)
• Anterior thigh
• Deltoid
• Lateral thigh
Injection Method
Technique:
• Use insulin syringes
• Or pre-filled pen devices
• Clean injection site
• Inject slowly and steadily
Important Tips
Best practices:
• Rotate sites daily
• Prevent lipodystrophy
• Room temperature injection
• Dispose of needles safely
Example Schedule
Daily HGH Protocol
6:00 PM - Evening Injection
Inject prescribed dose subcutaneously. Rotate injection sites. Allow medication to reach room temperature first.
Monthly Monitoring
Blood tests for IGF-1 levels, glucose, and other safety parameters. Dose adjustments based on results and clinical response.
Missed Dose Guidelines
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Do not double dose. Contact your healthcare provider if you miss multiple doses or have concerns about your injection schedule.
Extra Tips for Best Results
Lifestyle Optimization
- Maintain consistent sleep schedule (7-9 hours)
- Regular resistance training enhances benefits
- Adequate protein intake (1.2-1.6g/kg body weight)
- Manage stress levels for optimal response
Medical Monitoring
- Regular IGF-1 level monitoring essential
- Track glucose and insulin sensitivity
- Monitor for joint pain or swelling
- Annual comprehensive health assessments
Injection Best Practices
- Consistent timing improves effectiveness
- Proper storage maintains potency
- Site rotation prevents complications
- Sterile technique reduces infection risk
Expected Timeline
- Initial benefits: 1-3 months
- Body composition changes: 3-6 months
- Bone density improvements: 6-12 months
- Optimal results: 12+ months of therapy
What to Expect
Clinical studies show consistent improvements: adults typically gain 3.5 kg of lean body mass and lose 2.4 kg of fat mass within 6-12 months. Quality of life scores improve by 15%, bone density increases 5-10% annually, and exercise capacity improves by 25%. Results are gradual but sustained with proper medical supervision.
FDA-Approved Medical Treatment
Human Growth Hormone (HGH/Somatropin) is FDA-approved for growth hormone deficiency and specific medical conditions. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace consultation with qualified healthcare providers. HGH requires prescription and medical supervision for all therapeutic uses. Individual results may vary based on baseline hormone levels and clinical status.
Medical Disclaimer
Human Growth Hormone (HGH/Somatropin) is FDA-approved for growth hormone deficiency and specific medical conditions. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace consultation with qualified healthcare providers. HGH requires prescription and medical supervision for all therapeutic uses. Individual results may vary based on baseline hormone levels and clinical status.