Human Growth Hormone
Earlier this year Sylvester Stallone made headlines when he allegedly attempted to enter Australia with a supply of human growth hormone (hGH). According to some media reports that has led to a flurry of interest from certain sections of the public in this performance- and image-enhancing drug (PIED). So what is hGH and what are the consequences, both positive and negative, of using it?
HGH is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the pituitary gland and is one of the most important hormones influencing growth and development in humans. It plays a major role in normal growth from birth to adulthood. It stimulates the liver and other tissues to secrete insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1). IGF-1 stimulates production of cartilage cells, resulting in bone growth, and also plays a key role in muscle growth. Low hGH levels in children and teenagers can result in dwarfism. Excessive hGH secretion in children (which is extremely rare and usually resulting from a tumour of the pituitary gland) can result in gigantism.
Medical preparations of hGH are usually a sterile white powder that is reconstituted and then injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly. It is illegal to use hGH without a prescription in all parts of Australia and the substance is banned under the Olympic Movement’s World Anti-Doping Code Prohibited Classes of Substances and Prohibited Methods.
The reported benefits of hGH include: the reversal of common diseases associated with ageing, improved brain activity and function, strengthening connective tissue which reduces the probability of injury, weight loss without any loss in lean mass, reduction of wrinkles by rejuvenating the skin, increasing energy levels and brightening mood, promotion of muscle growth, improved libido, improved lung function, providing immune system support and thymus function, and the ability to produce more individual muscle cells.
Some individuals use hGH because they perceive that it is as effective as anabolic steroids with fewer side effects, and is difficult to detect in a drug test. It is being used alone and in conjunction with other substances to induce anabolic effects, reduce muscle cell breakdown and reduce body fat. HGH seems to decrease body fat and increase fat-free mass. However, there is less evidence that these effects translate to increased strength, endurance and sporting performance.
Although supervised growth hormone therapy in the case of a deficiency syndrome is generally quite safe, with few side effects, the situation regarding illicit hGH enhancement may not be so positive. One of the most common side effects of hGH misuse is acromegaly. The onset of this disorder begins with an overgrowth of bone and connective tissue that leads to a change in facial appearance, such as a protruding jaw and eyebrow bones. Acromegaly can also lead to abnormal growth of the hands and feet, and a shortened life expectancy.
Remember: if you do not want any negative consequences, do not use the drug and, no matter how many times you have used a substance, never be blas?/p>
