Growth hormone (GH), also known as somatotropin, plays a crucial role in the growth and development of the human body. However
Growth hormone (GH), also known as somatotropin, is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It plays a crucial role in stimulating growth and development in children and adolescents. In adults, GH helps regulate body composition, metabolism, and other important physiological processes.
Indications for GH therapy include growth hormone deficiency, which can lead to short stature and delayed puberty in children. It is also prescribed for individuals with certain genetic disorders, such as Turner syndrome and Prader-Willi syndrome, that affect growth and development.
On the other hand, there are various contraindications to the use of GH. These include active malignancy or a history of cancer, as GH can potentially stimulate tumor growth. Individuals with severe obesity, respiratory impairment, or untreated hypothyroidism may also be advised against GH therapy due to potential risks and complications.
It is important to note that GH therapy should always be prescribed and closely monitored by a qualified healthcare professional to ensure appropriate usage and minimize potential side effects.
Indications and Contraindications of Growth Hormone
Growth hormone is a vital hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a significant role in promoting growth, metabolism, and development in the human body. However, its use as a therapeutic agent should be carefully considered based on indications and contraindications.
Indications:
- Growth Hormone Deficiency: Individuals with inadequate production of growth hormone can benefit from exogenous growth hormone administration. This condition often leads to stunted growth and delayed puberty.
- Turner Syndrome: Females with Turner syndrome, a genetic disorder causing short stature and other health issues, may be prescribed growth hormone to improve height and overall development.
- Chronic Renal Insufficiency: Children with chronic kidney disease may experience growth failure due to impaired kidney function. Growth hormone therapy can help improve growth in these cases.
- Prader-Willi Syndrome: This rare genetic disorder results in poor muscle tone, low levels of sex hormones, and constant hunger leading to obesity. Growth hormone treatment can aid in managing body composition.
- Short Stature Associated with Small for Gestational Age: Infants who exhibit slow growth in the womb or after birth might receive growth hormone therapy to enhance their growth potential.
Contraindications:
- Active Cancer: Growth hormone therapy is contraindicated in individuals with active cancer due to its potential to stimulate tumor growth.
- Closed Epiphyses: Once the growth plates in long bones have fused and closed, growth hormone treatment becomes ineffective. Therefore, it is contraindicated in individuals with closed epiphyses.
- Severe Obesity: While growth hormone can aid in managing body composition, it should not be used solely for weight loss purposes. Severe obesity without a diagnosed underlying condition does not warrant growth hormone therapy.
- Acute Critical Illness: Growth hormone administration during acute critical illness growthhormone-for-sale is not recommended as it may interfere with the body’s natural response to stress and illness.
- Allergic Reaction: Individuals who have previously experienced severe allergic reactions to growth hormone or any of its components should avoid further treatment.
It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional specializing in endocrinology and growth disorders for appropriate evaluation and guidance regarding the use of growth hormone. The decision to initiate growth hormone therapy should be made based on a thorough examination of an individual’s medical history, physical examination, and specific indications.