Human Growth Hormone
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Summary Description of Human Growth Hormone
Human growth hormone is the most potent anti-aging hormone available. As we age, growth hormone decreases by 14% per decade from its levels at about age 25. Some of the most significant signs of aging are associated with lower levels of growth hormone. These include decreased skin thickness and elasticity(manifest as sagging skin, most noticeable in the jowls, under the arm, and inner thighs), lower muscle mass, decreased cardiac muscle strength, increased fat mass, increased anxiety, decreased sleep, and decreased energy. To date, growth hormone has had the indication for children and adults with growth hormone deficiency. Growth hormone deficiency has been defined (incorrectly in my judgment) as age-adjusted, resulting in only very low levels qualifying for deficiency. Yet anti-aging physicians are using growth hormone to improve some “biomarkers” of aging in those individuals with resources needed, as growth hormone (hGH) is expensive and requires laboratory and specialized physician monitoring.
What about safety?
I believe that hGH is very safe, reflecting that it, like thyroid hormone, is a natural product of the body. There have been no studies to date reflecting any serious side effects when given at physiologic doses, except those related to excessive physiologic effects related to excessive dosage. These are primarily related to water retention, and can cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Worsening of insulin resistance in susceptible individuals can occur if not addressed. At very high dosages, excessive bone growth can occur. There is no evidence of any cancer caused by growth hormone. When you think about it, who has higher incidence of cancer, children with high levels of growth hormone, or adults with lower levels of hGH? The dosages used are physiologic and individualized depending on the degree of growth hormone defiency determined through testing. Dosages are monitored and adjusted if signs of excessive dosage occur.
Use of Hormones
Both human Growth Hormone (Saizen) and Geref are self-administered via daily subcutaneous (beneath the skin) injections. This method of administration assures adequate absorption and is both safe and relatively painless. Both hormones are polypeptide hormones (that is made out of the constituents of proteins, namely amino acids) and not steroid hormones. Both are made with genetic recombinant DNA technology. Both are produced to FDA pharmaceutical standards by Serono, a major pharmaceutical company which has produced hGH for years.
Costs
Insurance does not cover these hormones and they remain expensive.
Contact Elan Vital Longevity Institute at 360.527.9785 for the costs.
Bibliography
See the bibliography to get more information about growth hormone, as well as anti-aging medicine in general.
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