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How Often Should I Take HGH?

The therapeutic use of human growth hormone (HGH) began in the 1950s when doctors started harvesting the natural substance from human cadavers' pituitary glands, but it has since been synthesized and is now available in an injectable form. There are a variety of reasons for using hormone therapy, and the dosage and frequency of use depends on several factors, including the health and age of the patient.

  1. Typical Dosage

    • The standard dosage for HGH injections is one international unit (IU) per day for four consecutive days, according to Dr. John Cranton of the Mount Rainier Clinic in Washington. This dosage is usually repeated weekly to treat FDA-approved disorders. Older patients are more sensitive to the hormones and may require smaller doses, and some patients looking for stronger immediate results may increase the dose to 1.5 to 2 IUs per day. Taking more than 2 IUs per day can result in unwanted side effects, according to Dr. Cranton.

    Side Effects

    • Side effects associated with HGH appear to correlate with dosage, meaning the more is taken, the higher the likelihood of experiencing unwanted effects. Among these side effects are overgrowth of facial bones, change in the appearance of the face, muscle weakness, heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, carpal tunnel syndrome, swelling, and joint and muscle pain. Most side effects happen to adults taking HGH who already have normal levels of the hormone. Side effects are fairly rare for those with HGH deficiencies, and it often improves overall health to bring their levels up to normal.

    Legality and Proper Usage

    • HGH is legal only by prescription, and it is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of human growth hormone deficiency, Turner's disease, chronic renal deficiency, intrauterine growth retardation, Prader-Willi syndrome, height deficit at puberty and cachexia. The FDA has not approved human growth hormone for performance-enhancing or anti-aging purposes.

    Without a Prescription

    • HGH boosters in pill and powder form can be obtained without a prescription. While they are not actually growth hormones, they are amino acids that the manufacturers claim will enhance performance and boost energy. While results may vary, the option is legal, less expensive and without the side effects associated with HGH injections. Consult your physician about adding a sports supplement to find out what is right for you if you are looking to boost athletic performance.

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