Human Growth Hormone (HGH): Medical Uses, Limits, and the Anti-Aging Hype

HGH (somatotropin) is a pituitary protein hormone that stimulates IGF-1 and influences growth, metabolism and tissue repair. Recombinant HGH is an approved therapy for defined deficiencies and conditions when prescribed and monitored medically. Claims that HGH is an effective anti-aging treatment lack robust evidence and carry safety risks. Lifestyle measures such as exercise, sleep, and weight control more reliably affect natural GH secretion than most over-the-counter products.

What is human growth hormone?

Human growth hormone (HGH), also called somatotropin, is a protein hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland that helps regulate growth, metabolism and tissue repair. The best-known circulating effect of HGH is stimulation of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) production in the liver and other tissues, which mediates many growth-related actions.

Note: sources differ on the exact amino-acid length of the common isoforms of human GH; please verify the precise sequence for molecular details.

Proven medical uses

Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) is an FDA-approved prescription therapy for defined conditions, such as childhood and adult growth hormone deficiency, some genetic short stature syndromes, and muscle wasting associated with HIV. These indications are supported by clinical trials showing improvements in height (children), body composition, and some metabolic parameters when used under medical supervision.

The anti-aging claim: limited evidence and real risks

Since the 1990s and 2000s, HGH has been marketed as an "anti-aging" solution. High-quality evidence does not support routine use of HGH for age-related decline in healthy adults. Small studies have reported short-term changes in body composition (more lean mass, less fat), but these changes do not reliably translate into better function, longer life, or clear health benefits.

Injectable HGH is a prescription drug in the United States and many other countries. Using HGH outside approved indications can carry risks. Known adverse effects include fluid retention and edema, joint and muscle pain, carpal tunnel symptoms, insulin resistance and increased risk of diabetes, and potential effects on tumor growth in people with active cancers. Long-term safety for anti-aging use remains unproven.

Products that claim to raise GH

There are two broad categories: regulated prescription therapies and over-the-counter supplements. Prescription options include rhGH and clinician-prescribed GH-releasing peptides or analogs (for example, sermorelin in some settings). These are administered only with medical oversight.

Many nonprescription supplements and so-called "HGH releasers" are marketed to increase endogenous GH. The evidence for these products is inconsistent. Lifestyle measures - regular resistance and high-intensity interval exercise, adequate sleep, weight management, and a balanced diet - have clearer, better-documented effects on natural GH secretion than most supplements.

Practical takeaways

If you suspect GH deficiency or consider GH therapy for any reason, see an endocrinologist. Appropriate testing (including IGF-1 levels and stimulation tests) and careful risk-benefit discussion are essential. Avoid unregulated products that promise dramatic anti-aging effects. Proven medical indications exist for rhGH, but broad use for aging is not supported by current evidence.

1. Confirm the exact amino-acid length(s) of human growth hormone isoforms (commonly cited as 190 vs 191 amino acids) and update the article text if needed.