HGH (Somatropin, Genotropin, Norditropin)

Lab-made human growth hormone. FDA-approved for growth hormone deficiency in children and adults and a few other conditions.

Evidence: Extensive clinical research
Half-life: ~3 hours
Sources: 3 cited

Is HGH (Somatropin) FDA-approved?

FDA-approved prescription drug.

Is HGH (Somatropin) banned in sport?

Banned in sport by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

Overview

Somatropin has the same structure as the growth hormone your pituitary makes. It's prescribed for growth hormone deficiency and certain conditions in children, such as Turner syndrome and Prader-Willi syndrome. In adults with true deficiency, it lowers body fat and raises lean mass. Anti-aging and bodybuilding aren't approved uses, and US law restricts distributing it for those purposes.

How it works

Growth hormone acts on the liver and other tissues, which then make IGF-1. Together they build muscle and bone, help break down fat and raise blood sugar somewhat.

How long does HGH (Somatropin) stay in the body?

About 3 hours after an under-the-skin shot, though its effects through IGF-1 last much longer.

What it's studied for

Growth hormone deficiency in children and adults
Body composition
Short stature conditions

Reported side effects

Joint and muscle pain
Swelling from fluid retention
Carpal tunnel symptoms
Higher blood sugar

How should HGH (Somatropin) be stored?

Most products go in the fridge and must not be frozen; check the specific product's label.

Sources

The studies and prescribing labels this page is written from.