In plain English
HGH is the growth hormone your pituitary gland makes naturally, produced in a lab in an identical form. Unlike the growth hormone peptides, which ask your body to release more of its own, HGH supplies the hormone directly. It is an FDA-approved medicine.
What it's used for
- Growth hormone deficiency in children and adults (approved)
- Turner syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, short stature from other causes (approved)
- HIV-related wasting and short bowel syndrome (approved, specific brands)
- Body composition, recovery and healthy aging (users)
Benefits
In human studies of adults with growth hormone deficiency, HGH increased lean mass, reduced body fat (especially around the belly), improved bone density and improved quality of life. Users report better recovery, deeper sleep, firmer skin and easier fat loss.
How it works
In simple terms: HGH is the hormone itself, so it works directly instead of asking the pituitary for more.
It binds growth hormone receptors throughout the body, especially in the liver, which then makes IGF-1. Growth hormone and IGF-1 together build muscle and bone, release stored fat and support tissue repair. Because it bypasses the body’s own control system, it suppresses natural growth hormone release while in use.
Development history
- 1958: Growth hormone taken from human pituitary glands is first used to treat children.
- 1985: Pituitary-derived hormone is withdrawn after links to Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease; the FDA approves the first lab-made (recombinant) growth hormone.
- 1996: Approved for adults with growth hormone deficiency.
- Today: Sold under many brands, with weekly long-acting versions (such as Skytrofa, Sogroya and Ngenla) also approved.
Typical protocols
Prescribed doses follow the prescribing label and are adjusted to IGF-1 levels. User ranges are what people commonly report. HGH is often measured in IU: 1 mg = 3 IU.
| Use | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Adult deficiency (label) | Often starts around 0.2–0.3 mg (0.6–1 IU), adjusted to IGF-1 | Daily |
| Healthy aging (users) | 1–2 IU | Daily, or 5 days on / 2 off |
| Body composition (users) | 2–4 IU | Daily, often split morning and evening |
Cycling
Prescribed treatment is usually continuous. Users commonly run it for months at a time, since its effects on body composition build slowly; some use 5 days on, 2 days off.
Administration options
Subcutaneous injection is the standard. Intramuscular injection is also used.
Reconstitution and dosing calculator
HGH vials are labeled in IU. Divide IU by 3 to get mg for the calculator (for example, a 10 IU vial is about 3.3 mg). Many users mix 1 mL of water so 1 IU is about 10 units. Mix gently: HGH is fragile and should never be shaken.
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Show the math
This tool does arithmetic only. It does not choose a dose or confirm that any substance is right for you. Double-check every result against your syringe and your clinician’s instructions.
Side effects and safety
- Common: water retention, swelling in the hands and feet, joint aches, tingling or carpal tunnel symptoms.
- Can raise blood sugar and lower insulin sensitivity, especially at higher doses.
- Higher doses over time can cause overgrowth effects; regular IGF-1 checks help keep levels in range.
- People with active cancer are usually advised to avoid growth factors and growth hormone-raising compounds.
- Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Prohibited in competitive sport (WADA).
Common stacks
Often used alone. Some users pair it with fat-loss peptides or with healing peptides such as BPC-157.
Storage
Powder: refrigerate (check the brand). After mixing: refrigerate at 2–8 °C and use within the time on the label, often 14–28 days.
Compare with
- CJC-1295, ipamorelin, sermorelin, tesamorelin: raise your own growth hormone in natural pulses, with smaller effects and less suppression.
- Overall, HGH is the most direct and strongest option; the peptides are gentler and cheaper.
Frequently asked questions
HGH or growth hormone peptides?
HGH supplies the hormone directly and is stronger. Peptides prompt your own pituitary, keep natural pulses and have milder effects.
How do I convert IU to mg?
Divide IU by 3. For example, 3 IU is 1 mg.
How long until results?
Users report better sleep within weeks, while changes to body composition take several months.
References
- Molitch ME, et al. Evaluation and treatment of adult growth hormone deficiency: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2011;96(6):1587-1609.
- Genotropin (somatropin) prescribing information. Pfizer.