Human growth hormone

Human growth hormone (HGH), also known as somatotropin, is a peptide hormone that stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and cell regeneration in humans and other animals. It is thus important in human development. It is a type of mitogen which is specific only to certain kinds of cells.

Production and function

HGH is produced by the pituitary gland, and is a critical hormone for growth and development in humans. It influences the growth of cells, bones, muscles and organs throughout the body. HGH also helps to regulate body composition, body fluids, muscle and bone growth, sugar and fat metabolism, and possibly heart function.

Medical use

In the United States, it is only available legally from pharmacies, by prescription from a doctor. In recent years in the United States, some doctors have started to prescribe growth hormone in GH-deficient older patients (but not on healthy people) to increase vitality. While legal, the efficacy and safety of this use for HGH has not been tested in a clinical trial.

Side effects

Possible side effects of HGH use include: nerve, muscle, or joint pain; swelling due to fluid in the body's tissues (edema); carpal tunnel syndrome; numbness and tingling of the skin; high cholesterol levels; and increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.

See also

• Pituitary gland
• Peptide hormone
• Mitogen
• Cell reproduction
• Cell regeneration

References

Human growth hormone Resources
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