How Long Should I Take HGH?

HGH (human growth hormone) is a polypeptide made of 191 essential amino acids fundamentally responsible for the proper development of muscle, cartilage and bone in the body. It is created, stored and then released by the anterior pituitary gland. Throughout life, HGH is dispensed in several small quantities into the bloodstream daily. The amount secreted reaches its highest levels during puberty, but slowly declines with age.

Sustaining higher HGH levels later in life promotes healthy coronary function, prolonged endurance, mental clarity and mood elevation. By increasing HGH production, other functions said to improve significantly in older adults include immune system functioning, injury recovery, hair growth and sexual performance. Raising growth hormone levels also facilitates the loss of fat, buildup of lean muscle mass, healthy sleeping patterns, and reduces the risk for type 2 adult-onset diabetes.

Several supplements are available commercially that claim to increase growth hormone in the body. Of these, the most effective method to date entails receiving injections of HGH administered by a physician. Injectible HGH was originally collected from cadavers after death; current HGH injections are produced synthetically. They can only be attained by prescription, and are generally reserved for those who have conditions or illnesses that hinder normal development.

Supplements called HGH natural releasers are available in powder or pill form for the general population and work by stimulating the pituitary gland to increase growth hormone production and release. HGH releasers have been shown to elevate growth hormone levels effectively over time and are not yet known to produce any adverse effects.

HGH injections are dosed according to the individual patient's age and fitness level. Typically, physicians will proceed with caution, dividing as little as four to eight IU (international units) per week into two daily doses; this amount is then increased gradually over time. Older patients may start with smaller amounts due to increased sensitivity. Peak HGH levels only occur two to six hours after injection, so the dosages must be administered daily for prolonged effect. These on-cycles of injections can last from six months to a year.

HGH releasers are typically taken for three to six months at a time, followed by a rest period of the same length. During the off-cycle, growth hormone levels will continue to remain significantly high. While athletes may opt for longer cycles, people interested in HGH for fat loss can go for less. For this purpose, supplementing for a four week period is sufficient.