About HGH Deficiency

With our understanding of Human Growth Hormone, we can understand the impact of its decrease.

The somatotroph cells of the anterior pituitary gland produce growth hormone. Its secretion is stimulated by growth hormone-releasing hormone and inhibited by somatostatin, both of which are produced by the hypothalamus.

Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) manifests in variable ways, depending upon the age of onset.

According to Mohsen S Eledrisi, MD, Assistant Professor at the Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, King Abdulaziz National Guard Medical Center, Saudi Arabia, in children, the most obvious indicator is short stature. In adults, reduced physical performance and impaired psychological well-being are common indicators.

As a side effect, the goals of growth hormone therapy differ significantly in children and adults. In children, therapy promotes growth in a linear fashion and restores body composition; in adults, the goals are improved conditioning and strength, restoration of normal body composition, and an improved quality of life.