Human Growth Hormone & Common Diseases

In its natural form, the Human Growth Hormone is secreted by the pituitary gland, a pea-sized gland situated in the brain. Most of the hormone is produced during childhood and the teens. Production tapers off as the person ages and it eventually stops in the forties. HGH is a 191-amino-acid, single chain polypeptide hormone. In humans (and other animals as well), it stimulates growth and cell reproduction. HGH has been artificially reproduced through recombinant DNA technology by several private laboratories. Artificial HGH thus produced is called rHGH.

Deficiency of HGH
Deficiency of HGH in humans is a genetic disorder that leads to growth failure and a short stature. Congenital malformations are also common as well as delayed sexual maturity. In adults, lack of HGH can result in obesity, a decrease in muscle mass and decreased energy. HGH deficiency in adults is, however, quite rare.

Deficiencies of HGH can be treated by hormone replacement therapy with rHGH. This is always done under medical supervision and in limited circumstances. Treatment with rHGH has many unintended consequences and therefore constant medical assistance is crucial. Benefits of rHGH treatment include reduced fat mass, increased lean mass, increased bone density and reduced cardiovascular risk factors.

Excess of HGH
In some rare cases, cancer may develop in the pituitary gland. This is commonly referred to as pituitary adenoma. While this is benign, it results in an increase of HGH production. Prolonged HGH secretion results in thickening of the bones of the jaw, fingers and toes-a condition called acromegaly. Associated problems include muscle weakness, insulin resistance, diabetes, and reduced sexual function. Pituitary cancer occurs mostly in adults over 50. When it occurs in children, it results in pituitary gigantism (increased growth). This condition is treated by surgically removing the tumor.

HGH as a treatment for HIV-related muscle wasting
AIDS results in numerous disorders that result from the dysfunctions of the immune system. Muscle wasting, that is a decrease in muscle mass, is one of them. HGH has the capability to increase muscle mass and therefore has been proposed in alleviating the symptoms of AIDS.

HGH as treatments for other conditions
HGH is also indicated in other diseases which result in short stature such as Turner Syndrome, Chronic renal failure, intrauterine growth retardation, etc. These conditions typically require larger doses of HGH in order to be corrected.

The application of HGH use in the treatment of other conditions is still subject to research. Conditions such as multiple sclerosis, obesity, fibromyalgia, and Crohn's disease are all allegedly treatable with HGH. However, research in these areas is still limited and no conclusive evidence is available for a responsible medical practitioner to recommend treatment with HGH.

Side Effects of rHGH
An excess of HGH in the blood can result in an increase risk of diabetes. HGH has also been linked to development of colon cancer and prostate cancer. Joint swelling and joint pain are more common side effects of regular use of HGH. Carpal tunnel syndrome (a nervous system disorder) is also a possibility.