Human Growth Hormone (HGH), or somatotropin, is a peptide hormone naturally produced and secreted by the pituitary gland, a small organ located at the base of the brain. The hormone plays a multifaceted role in the body, making it a target for non-medical use. This article examines the amounts of HGH typically used illicitly for performance and aesthetic enhancement. The use of HGH without a valid medical prescription carries significant health and legal risks.
The Biological Function of HGH
The body’s natural production of HGH is controlled by the hypothalamus, which signals the pituitary gland to release the hormone in pulses, often during deep sleep and after intense exercise. Although its most recognized function is promoting growth in childhood, HGH remains active throughout a person’s life. It contributes to several metabolic and regenerative processes, acting on various tissues, including fat, bone, and muscle.
HGH does not directly cause tissue growth; instead, it primarily stimulates the liver to produce Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1). The HGH-IGF-1 axis is responsible for maintaining body composition and regulating lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. By promoting the building of proteins and breaking down fats, the hormone assists in balancing energy use and supporting tissue repair.
Typical Non-Medical Use Cycles and Amounts
Non-medical users, primarily bodybuilders and athletes, structure their HGH use in cycles, aiming for effects that exceed natural physiological levels. Dosage is measured in International Units (IU), and the amount used depends on the user’s goals. Cycles typically last an average of 16 weeks, though some users continue for four to six months or even longer.
A common low-dose protocol for perceived anti-aging benefits or modest fat loss involves 1 to 3 IU per day, similar to a medical replacement dose for adults with a diagnosed deficiency. Individuals seeking significant changes in body composition use substantially higher dosages. Users focused on muscle growth often administer between 4 IU and 8 IU per day, with some reports suggesting doses as high as 10 to 25 IU per day, three or four times per week.
The daily dose is split into two or more smaller subcutaneous injections to maintain stable blood concentrations and mimic the body’s natural pulsatile release. HGH is frequently “stacked” with other performance-enhancing drugs, particularly anabolic steroids. This combination produces synergistic effects on muscle mass and fat reduction, but administering supra-physiological doses over long periods significantly raises the risk of severe health complications.
Severe Health Consequences of Misuse
The primary danger of excessive HGH use is the sustained elevation of HGH and its mediator, IGF-1, which can lead to acromegaly. This disorder is characterized by the abnormal, irreversible growth of bone and soft tissues, noticeable in the hands, feet, and facial features. Tissue enlargement can also affect internal organs, causing cardiomyopathy and other cardiovascular complications.
Chronic exposure to high levels of HGH can also induce insulin resistance, which forces the pancreas to produce more insulin to manage blood sugar. Over time, this can progress to the development of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Another frequent side effect is carpal tunnel syndrome, caused by fluid retention and the thickening of surrounding soft tissues that compress nerves.
The growth-promoting properties of HGH and IGF-1 can stimulate the growth of pre-existing cancerous tumors, increasing the risk of malignancies. These risks are directly related to the duration and magnitude of the dose. High-dose protocols present a serious threat to long-term health, and the potential for permanent organ damage is clear.
Regulatory Status and Administration
In the United States, Human Growth Hormone is a prescription-only medication and is not classified as a controlled substance. Federal law criminalizes the distribution or possession with the intent to distribute HGH for any purpose other than specific, recognized medical conditions authorized by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Approved medical uses are narrowly defined and include adult growth hormone deficiency and muscle wasting associated with AIDS.
HGH must be administered via injection, usually through subcutaneous injection into the fatty tissue, typically in the abdomen. This route allows for slow, steady absorption that better mimics the body’s natural release pattern. Acquiring HGH without a prescription often involves black-market sources, which introduce significant risks regarding the purity, sterility, and accurate labeling of the product. Unregulated substances may contain contaminants or incorrect dosages, further compounding the health dangers of misuse.