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HGH Safety

Human growth hormone (HGH) is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. When a person doesn't produce enough HGH, her doctor may prescribe injections of synthetic HGH (somatropin).

  1. Indications

    • The Food and Drug Administration approved HGH in 1985 for treatment of growth hormone deficiency, Prader-Willi and Turner syndromes and other specific medical conditions in children and adults.

    Features

    • HGH promotes more normal growth in children who are HGH-deficient It also increases bone density and muscle mass, decreases body fat, and increases exercise capacity in adults who are HGH-deficient.

    Side Effects

    • Some common side effects of HGH in children include dizziness, abnormal or decreased touch sensations, ear infections, severe headaches and a very fast or slow heart rate. Adults may experience arm and leg swelling, joint pain, muscle pain and abnormal breast growth (in men).

    Considerations

    • If HGH is given to someone who already produces enough HGH, it increases his risk of developing atherosclerosis, high blood pressure and diabetes. Excess HGH can also lead to bone, liver and kidney problems.

    Tips

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, HGH should be used with caution in people with acute critical illness, diabetes, tumors and underactive thyroids.

    Expert Insight

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, a person taking HGH needs regular checkups by his health-care provider to monitor the drug's effectiveness and identify potential complications.

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