Growth hormone is produced by a pea-sized structure at the base of the brain called the pituitary gland, according to the MayoClinic.com. When people have a deficiency of human growth hormone, often they turn to a synthetic version known as somatropin. Somatropin is available only with a prescription. Human growth hormone has many benefits, but there are a few misconceptions about it.
Uses
Human growth hormone is approved to treat children with a growth hormone deficiency such as children with kidney disease, Prader-Willi syndrome and Turner's syndrome. Physicians may also prescribe the medication for the treatment of adults with growth failure, as well as patients with muscle wasting from critical illnesses.
Benefits
Human growth hormone helps children to grow. Human growth hormone also helps to maintain tissues and organs throughout life. The MayoClinic.com also explains that physicians often use human growth hormone to help to increase bone density, exercise capacity and muscle mass, as well as to decrease body fat.
Misconceptions
Over time, a person's body can produce less of the hormones needed to maintain the immune system, muscle mass, energy, sexual desire and function, which can cause a decrease in well-being. While human growth hormone purportedly can help people look and feel younger by increasing the hormones that decrease with age, Drugs.com explains that studies are limited and that the risks may far outweigh the benefits.
Common Side Effects
Side effects of human growth can be extensive and quite common. Patients may notice changes in skin color, flu-like symptoms, cold hands and feet, confusion, constipation, blood in urine, bloating or swelling in the face, hands legs, feet and arms. Other common side effects include a burning sensation or numbness, itching or tingling, dry mouth, dizziness, fainting, fast heart beat, fever joint pain, light-colored stools, muscle pain, nausea, abdominal pain, rapid breathing, loss of appetite, stomach pressure, vomiting, wrinkled skin, jaundice, fatigue, unusual weight loss or gain, thirst and anal swelling. Patients should alert their physicians immediately if they exhibit any of these effects.
Rare Side Effects
In rare instances, patients may experience carpal tunnel syndrome, breast enlargement, depression, irritability, joint pain, muscle pain, cramps or stiffness, sleepiness, trouble concentrating, loss of interest or pleasure and increased growth of birthmarks.
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