Known as somatotropin or human growth hormone (GH), this essential peptide hormone is produced in the anterior section of the pituitary gland. It is pivotal in boosting protein production, regulating carbohydrate and sugar metabolism, assisting tissue recovery post-injury, and supporting the optimal operation of various organs and systems. Growth hormone is fundamental for encouraging growth, cellular development, and regeneration in both humans and animals, marking its importance in life's developmental phases.
GH is instrumental in the development and growth of bodily tissues and organs, spearheading bone growth and influencing the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, proteins, and minerals. It also ensures fluid and electrolyte equilibrium in the body. It initiates fat breakdown in adipocytes, enhances amino acid uptake, and maintains nitrogen in muscles, all of which help preserve muscle strength and mass. Additionally, GH affects the secretion of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), mainly in the liver, which significantly impacts growth and metabolic functions.
Peak production of growth hormone occurs during growth phases, facilitating our progression from childhood to full adulthood. The highest hormone secretion happens in early youth and during puberty, with a noticeable decrease starting at around 25 years of age.
Growth hormone is esteemed for its ability to enhance muscle mass through anabolic and anti-catabolic effects, by promoting protein synthesis and slowing its breakdown. It is crucial in reducing subcutaneous fat layers and enhancing fat burning during physical activity, valued greatly by athletes.
Moreover, somatotropin manages carbohydrate metabolism by producing an anti-insulin effect (reducing insulin efficacy), which raises blood glucose levels to supply energy during physical strain. It also helps prevent osteoporosis by improving bone's calcium absorption, particularly vital during muscle exertion.
Effects of Growth Hormone
Growth hormone acts as an essential intermediary, primarily involved in producing insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), which carries out most effects commonly associated with growth hormone. Growth hormone also directly affects various bodily functions through binding with specific receptors.
Key functions facilitated by growth hormone include:
Stimulating lipolysis – the transformation of fat molecules into fatty acids.
Increasing the permeability of cell membranes to certain amino acids, thus supplying vital building blocks to cells.
Enhancing the body's calcium retention, which strengthens bones.
Bolstering the immune system.
Facilitating the conversion of thyroxine (T4) into triiodothyronine (T3).
Raising blood glucose levels.
Role of Growth Hormone in IGF-1 Production
Although some of growth hormone's actions are immediate, many of its functions are mediated through the insulin-like growth factor IGF-1 (once known as somatomedin C). Produced in the liver due to somatotropin's influence, IGF-1 is crucial for the development of internal organs. Most benefits of growth hormone in athletics stem from IGF-1, positioning growth hormone mainly as a facilitator in this secondary hormone's synthesis. The growth and enhancement of body tissues attributed to growth hormone are predominantly due to IGF-1's effects.
Additional benefits of IGF-1 include:
Increasing the body's antioxidants.
Reducing inflammation.
Maintaining stable blood sugar and electrolyte levels.
Helping prevent cardiovascular diseases.
Improving cognitive functions, useful particularly in stroke recovery.
Supporting muscle growth through anabolic activity.
Accelerating the healing process by boosting collagen production.
Strengthening bones via enhanced calcium retention, thereby improving bone density.
Applications of Growth Hormone
Enhancing Tendon and Joint Resilience
In sports like powerlifting where tendon strength is key, growth hormone shows significant benefits. For team sports and combat disciplines with frequent tendon injuries, growth hormone is increasingly used for faster recovery.
Improving Explosive Strength
Useful for sprinters and athletes in dynamic sports, growth hormone helps enhance speed and explosiveness.
Increasing Muscle Mass
Higher levels of somatotropin lead to increased protein synthesis and reduced amino acid oxidation, aiding muscle growth. Growth hormone also blocks glucose uptake by fat cells, favoring muscle anabolism and preventing fat accumulation.
Reducing Fat
With strong fat-burning properties, growth hormone is popular among bodybuilders and those aiming for an athletic physique.
Anti-Aging Effects
Starting from the mid-40s, the natural decrease in somatotropin production may lead to aging symptoms. Synthetic growth hormone can help mitigate such effects.
Recommended Dosages
For anti-aging: 1-1.5 IU daily
For improving tendon and joint strength, and aiding recovery: 2-3 IU daily
To speed up recovery after intense efforts: 3-4 IU daily
For fat reduction: 3-6 IU daily
To enhance muscle mass: 6-12 IU daily
Risks and Limitations
People with cardiovascular issues
Individuals diagnosed with cancer
Those with Type 2 Diabetes
Possible Side Effects
Generally safe when used correctly, growth hormone may cause some adverse effects like fluid retention, increased blood pressure, and higher blood sugar levels. These may include:
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Fluid Retention
Elevated Blood Pressure
Decreased Thyroid Activity
Hyperglycemia
Joint Pain
Handling and Storage of Growth Hormone
The dry form of growth hormone comes with a vial of powder and a water ampoule for reconstitution. This lyophilized powder should be mixed with the provided solvent (bacteriostatic water) according to specific guidelines for preparing the solution. Once reconstituted, store the liquid hormone as directed to maintain its potency.
Preparing the Hormone Solution
Draw the solvent into the syringe, usually about one milliliter per vial.
Inject the solvent into the vial with the freeze-dried powder by letting the liquid run down the side of the vial to avoid direct contact with the powder.
Gently swirl the vial to dissolve the powder without shaking vigorously. Once dissolved, the hormone is ready for use and should be stored at refrigerated temperatures for up to 14 days or at room temperature for up to three days.
Proper Storage Methods
Keep the unmixed powder at room temperature or refrigerated, away from direct light and heat. The dry form of somatotropin remains stable for up to three years under proper conditions.
Once a vial is opened, the hormone should be used within two weeks to maintain effectiveness, and it is advisable to refrigerate the product if the packaging integrity is compromised.
The bacteriostatic water used for reconstitution should also be kept refrigerated to preserve its sterility and effectiveness.
Common Questions
Is post-cycle therapy needed after using Human Growth Hormone?
Post-cycle therapy is not necessary after growth hormone use as it does not affect sex hormone levels.
Are HGH injections painful?
Administered with a fine needle, HGH injections are designed to be minimally invasive and are typically painless.
Effects of Growth Hormone on Women
Many women use HGH for anti-aging and weight loss. Deficiency symptoms like dry skin, thinning hair, and increased belly fat can be alleviated with hormone therapy, which also supports a healthy skin and bone structure.
Expectations from Growth Hormone Usage
In sports, growth hormone is sought for its fat reduction capabilities. Studies also show increases in lean muscle mass and muscle cell volume from its use.
Combining Growth Hormone with Anabolic Steroids
Combining growth hormone with anabolic steroids is a common practice among bodybuilders to enhance the steroids' effects.
