GROWTH HORMONE SECRETAGOGUS
WHAT ARE GROWTH HORMONE SECRETAGOGUES (GHSs)?
Growth hormone secretagogues are a class of drugs that induce the secretion of growth hormone (GH) in the body. They include agonists of the ghrelin/growth hormone secretagogue receptor such as GHRP-2, GHRP-6, ipamorelin, and ibutamoren, and agonists of the growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor such as CJC-1295, sermorelin, and tesamorelin.
Growth hormone secretagogues stimulate the release of growth hormone (GH) and GH triggers production of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) by the liver. IGF-1 is the primary mediator of the effects of GH, as it has growth-promoting effects on almost every cell in the body
As people age, their GH and IGF-1 levels decrease naturally. This can have many health consequences since these hormones modulate learning and memory, glucose and lipid metabolism, inflammatory response, and cardiac performance.
STUDIED BENEFITS OF GHS ADMINISTRATION
Clinical trials in humans have shown several benefits of GHS injections including:
- Increase in GH and IGF-1 to youthful levels
- Increase in lean body mass
- Improved general well-being and libido
- Increased immunity via improvements in B-cell responsiveness
- Reduction in abdominal fat
- Improved physical fitness
- Improved cognition, memory, and executive function
- Reduction in triglycerides and cholesterol
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
Neoplasms: Preexisting malignancy should be inactive and its treatment complete prior to starting therapy
Fluid Retention:May include edema, arthralgia, and carpal tunnel syndrome
Glucose Intolerance:May develop with use. Evaluate glucose status prior to and during therapy
Hypersensitivity Reactions (e.g., rash, urticaria): Seek immediate medical attention if suspected
Injection Site Reactions:Rotate injection sites
Acute Critical Illness: Consider discontinuation
Elevated IGF-1: Monitor regularly. Consider discontinuation if persistent elevations
MOST COMMON SIDE EFFECTS
>5% and more frequent than placebo: Arthralgia (Joint Pain). Injection Site Redness, Injection Site Itching, Pain in Extremities/Muscle Pain, Peripheral Edema (Swelling)