Growth Hormone
HGH (Human Growth Hormone)
About HGH (Human Growth Hormone)
HGH is recombinant human growth hormone, identical to what your pituitary gland produces naturally. Production peaks during puberty and steadily declines with age, which is the basis for its use in anti-aging, recovery, and body composition.
At lower doses (1 to 2 IU daily), it's used for anti-aging, better sleep, skin quality, and recovery. At higher doses (3 to 5 IU daily), it shifts toward fat loss and lean muscle preservation. It's injected subcutaneously, typically in the morning or before bed.
HGH is dosed in international units (IU), not milligrams, though the conversion is roughly 3 IU per milligram. It's one of the more expensive peptides and is a controlled substance in many jurisdictions, unlike most other peptides.
Onset and what to expect
Sleep improvement is often the first thing people notice, sometimes within the first week. Skin quality changes (thicker, more hydrated skin) show up around weeks 3 to 4. Fat loss and body composition changes take longer, typically 2 to 3 months of consistent use.
The full anti-aging and recovery benefits play out over 6 to 12 months. HGH is a long game. Some people report water retention and joint stiffness early on, which usually settles down as the body adjusts.
Side effects
Water retention and joint pain are the most common, especially at higher doses. Carpal tunnel symptoms can develop. These are dose-dependent and usually resolve by lowering the dose.
HGH raises blood sugar, so monitor your fasting glucose if you're using it regularly. At higher doses, there's a risk of insulin resistance over time. Gynecomastia (breast tissue growth in men) is possible at elevated doses.
Long-term use at high doses carries more serious theoretical risks, including potential acceleration of existing cancers. Stick to reasonable doses and get bloodwork done periodically.
Storage and reconstitution
HGH is temperature-sensitive. Refrigerate at 36 to 46°F at all times, both before and after reconstitution. Do not freeze. It degrades faster than most peptides if left at room temperature.
Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water or the diluent provided. Let the water run down the side of the vial and allow it to dissolve without shaking. Use within 28 days of reconstitution.
Also known as
rHGH, somatropin, growth hormone, GH, Genotropin, Norditropin, Humatrope, Saizen