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What Do You Do for a Low HGH Level?

A low level of human growth hormone (HGH), also known as growth hormone deficiency (GHD), is a treatable condition that occurs in both adults and children. According to the Neuroendocrin Clinical Center (NCC) at the Massachusetts General Hospital, the condition in adults is referred to as acquired GHD.

  1. Treatment

    • GHD is treated with recombinant human growth hormone, a man-made version of the natural growth hormone made by the body, reports the NCC.

    Effectiveness

    • Recombinant growth hormone has been shown to reverse many of the effects of GHD such as slow growth, high levels of body fat and low levels of muscle mass and muscle strength.

    Administration

    • Treatment of adults and children with GHD is in the form of daily or weekly injections. Injections can be self-administered using various devices.

    Side Effects

    • Low doses of recombinant human growth hormone are not associated with serious side effects, according to the NCC. Higher doses have been known to cause fluid retention and hypertension, along with more serious adverse conditions in some people.

    Duration of Treatment

    • The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and on the response to the recombinant growth hormone, but may be lifelong.

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