Somatropin

Also known as: HGH, Growth hormone

Status

FDA-approved. Approved labeling exists for defined indications including growth hormone deficiency. Labels carry detailed contraindications and monitoring requirements.

What it is

Recombinant human growth hormone, prescribed for specific deficiencies.

What published research measured

Recombinant human growth hormone, the reference compound this whole category is measured against and among the most thoroughly studied agents in the library. Randomized human trials establish efficacy in the approved deficiency states, and in adults with genuine growth hormone deficiency, replacement improves body composition, bone density and several quality-of-life measures. The literature in healthy adults tells a different story and is often misrepresented: meta-analysis of controlled trials in healthy people found growth hormone increased lean body mass as measured on a scale, but that this reflected fluid retention substantially rather than contractile tissue, with no accompanying improvement in strength, and with higher rates of soft-tissue oedema, arthralgia, carpal tunnel syndrome and impaired glucose tolerance. Long-term supraphysiological exposure is associated with the acromegalic complications seen in disease states. Prohibited at all times in sport under WADA class S2.

Source

Liu et al. 2007, Annals of Internal Medicine — systematic review of growth hormone in the healthy elderly · WADA Prohibited List, class S2

Sources

No linked primary source is on file for this entry yet.

Educational use only, never medical advice. No doses.