Human growth hormone (HGH), also known as somatropin, is a key hormone produced in the pituitary gland that plays an important role in growth and development, especially during childhood and adolescence. As we age, HGH production declines naturally, which can lead to undesirable effects.
HGH therapy involves supplementing with synthetic HGH to return levels back to a healthy range. When used properly under medical supervision, HGH therapy offers a variety of health and wellness benefits.
Some common symptoms of low HGH levels in adults include:
If you experience a cluster of these symptoms, hgh testing is recommended to determine if you have a true HGH deficiency requiring treatment.
Correcting an HGH deficiency with therapy can provide impressive benefits such as:
At Balance & Renew Clinic in Takoma Park, we have extensive experience using HGH therapy to help patients correct hormone deficiencies safely and effectively. Read on to learn more about specific aspects of HGH treatment.
While often associated with athletes looking to gain an edge, HGH therapy was originally developed in 1985 as a treatment for children with growth hormone deficiency to help them attain normal height and body proportions. Today it remains an FDA-approved medication used for legitimate medical conditions like growth hormone deficiency and muscle-wasting diseases.
Basics of HGH Treatment Protocols
Before starting HGH therapy, your hormone specialist at Balance & Renew Clinic will need to diagnose a true HGH deficiency through blood tests, medical history review and evaluation of your symptoms.
Once a deficiency is confirmed, an individualized HGH dosing protocol will be designed based on factors like your height, weight, age, gender, lifestyle and treatment goals.
Most patients begin HGH therapy by self-administering injections at a starting dosage of approximately 0.5 to 1 international units (IU) per day.
The dosage often needs adjustment during the first months of treatment based on follow-up lab testing and evaluation of patient feedback regarding benefits and side effects.
Patients using somatropin HGH injections will typically inject between 3-7 times per week. Daily injections before bedtime works very well for most people in terms of both convenience and mimicking the body’s natural HGH production.
However, some patients may utilize an every-other-day injection protocol or administer more than one daily dose depending on their customized regimen.
HGH therapy is generally continued long-term in patients with an irreversible deficiency of growth hormone production.
Once the optimal dosage has been established, regular lab work and follow-up evaluations are key to ensuring maximum benefits are achieved and maintained over time with minimal risks.
Most patients can expect to be on lifelong replacement therapy, while some may attempt slowly tapering off HGH after 1-2 years under careful supervision.
Since hormone production and interaction is complex, an HGH deficiency can occur alongside deficiencies in other key hormones like testosterone or estrogen.
Balance & Renew Clinic will evaluate the need to supplement additional hormones based on your lab results, signs and symptoms. Combination therapy provides advantages for some patients.
The Importance of Hormone Testing
Diagnostic testing is an essential first step to accurately identify any hormone imbalances or deficiencies requiring treatment. Balance & Renew Clinic utilizes advanced testing methods and comprehensive panels.
Ideally, your first laboratory assessment should occur before initiating therapy so hormone levels can be rechecked 3-6 months later to help finalize optimal dosing.
Along with a complete history and physical exam, an IGF-1 blood test is the most reliable way to diagnose reduced GH production.
Provocative GH stimulation testing via injection of compounds can provide additional confirmation in complex cases when IGF-1 testing is inconclusive.
Lifestyle Recommendations for Best Results
While HGH therapy delivers impressive benefits, making certain lifestyle adjustments can enhance results even further:
HGH enhances utilization of nutrients for fueling muscles and vital functions. Feeding your body properly amplifies positive effects.
HGH ramps up protein synthesis and impacts lean tissue growth significantly when combined with proper exercise.
Fine-tuning all facets of your lifestyle complements the benefits of growth hormone therapy excellently.
Some patients report increased soreness for a short period when initiating HGH therapy due to the rapid rise in protein synthesis.
Scheduling a few days off from intense workouts can minimize discomfort. Soreness typically resolves within 1-2 weeks once the body adapts.
HGH Injection Instructions and Tips
Self-administering growth hormone injections takes some getting used to, but most patients are able to master the technique quickly. Proper sterile procedures are vital for safety and results.
Talk to your Balance & Renew Clinic provider about pen devices if interested in a simplified injection option.
Rotating sites helps avoid skin irritation and lumps. Common rotation patterns are daily or weekly.
Don't hesitate to contact your Balance & Renew Clinic provider for guidance if any issues arise!
Local Partners and Resources in Takoma Park
Taking advantage of local amenities can enhance your experience with HGH therapy through convenience as well as physical and mental health perks.
Convenient local partners for initial and follow-up lab testing:
Having blood draws performed nearby eliminates hassles. We utilize advanced methods.
Boosting exercise while doing HGH therapy boosts benefits. Great local gyms:
Achieve optimal gains in muscle development with properly structured workouts.
Fueling your body optimally aids HGH effectiveness. Nearby healthy eateries include:
Balancing nutrition, carbs, protein and healthy fats keeps your engine running smoothly.
Managing stress through relaxing activities amplifies wellness. Destress locally at:
Lower cortisol and clear your head with nourishing downtime.
We hope this guide gives you ample knowledge about the exciting benefits HGH therapy provides along with key steps to achieve success. Reach out to your Balance & Renew Clinic specialist with any other questions!
