A human growth hormone (HGH) enhancer is a dietary supplement claiming to build muscle, prevent the negative effects of aging, and promote weight loss. Distributors of these products say the supplements prompt the body's pituitary gland to generate human growth hormone naturally. The synthetic human growth hormone enhancer is sold as pills, sprays, or powders without a prescription because supplements are not regulated in some countries.
The human body produces HGH during childhood and adolescence to enable normal growth, and is secreted by the pituitary gland located at the bottom of the brain. Once a person stops growing, the amount of HGH produced gradually declines. It is estimated that by age 40, the level of HGH is 60 percent less than during growth periods. Retailers claim supplements can induce the pituitary gland to produce additional HGH, but scientific evidence is lacking.
There is evidence that HGH injections promote growth in children who are deficient in the hormone. In the 1950s, it was given to youngsters who were deficient in HGH to enable them to reach normal height. The growth hormone used for this purpose came from the pituitary glands of corpses, and was injected under a doctor's supervision. When research linked the injections to an increased risk of developing Creutzfeld-Jakob disease years after the shots were administered, its use was discontinued in favor of a synthetic human growth hormone enhancer.
Supplements advertised as a human growth hormone enhancer make claims such as promoting youthful-looking skin and increasing energy. Others are marketed to body builders to generate muscle mass, and improve performance and strength. Some companies that sell human growth hormone enhancers have been fined by government agencies for deceptive advertising that is not backed up by scientific evidence.
Professional athletes in most regions are banned from using HGH, along with steroids. The International Olympic Committee also has prohibited its use in Olympic competition. Some athletes use HGH injections to recover from injuries and speed healing after surgery. No routine test is administered to detect the hormone in pro athletes.
People who believe a human growth hormone enhancer is effective often purchase supplements because injections are illegal in some countries when used as an anti-aging agent. Injections of HGH commonly require a doctor's prescription and are costly. Those seeking restored youth sometimes risk side effects that include increased sweating, and an increased risk of developing diabetes. HGH may also cause growth of the hands, feet, and internal organs.