HGH for Children and Adolescents
For children and adolescents, the use of Human Growth Hormone (HGH) is strictly reserved for treating conditions that cause impaired growth. The most effective period for height increase is before puberty, while the growth plates in the bones are still open.
When to start and stop HGH therapy for growth
- Early Childhood: Treatment can begin as early as 2 to 3 years old, especially for children who are small for their gestational age and have not shown adequate catch-up growth. Starting early allows for the longest possible treatment window to maximize potential height gain before the growth plates fuse.
- Adolescence: Injections can continue through adolescence, but their effectiveness for height gain diminishes as the child reaches the end of puberty.
- Stopping Treatment: HGH therapy for height gain must be discontinued once the growth plates have fused, which typically occurs around age 14 in girls and 16 in boys. Continuing treatment past this point will not increase height further.
Pediatric medical conditions warranting HGH
HGH is FDA-approved for several pediatric conditions, including:
- Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD)
- Turner Syndrome
- Prader-Willi Syndrome
- Chronic Renal Insufficiency
- Children born small for their gestational age who do not catch up in growth
- Idiopathic Short Stature (ISS), a controversial indication for very short children with no other medical cause
HGH for Adults
For adults, HGH is not a fountain of youth but a medically necessary treatment for a specific condition known as Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency (AGHD). AGHD is distinct from the natural, age-related decline in growth hormone.
Indications for adult HGH therapy
Adults may be diagnosed with GHD that is either a continuation of a childhood issue or is new, often due to damage to the pituitary gland from a tumor, surgery, or radiation. Injections for deficient adults can offer several benefits:
- Improved body composition, including reduced body fat and increased lean muscle mass
- Increased bone density
- Enhanced exercise capacity
- Improved mood and energy levels
Age and dosing in adults
While AGHD can occur at any adult age, dosing protocols are often age-stratified. Older adults typically begin with a lower dose to minimize the risk of side effects. Unlike children, for whom treatment ends with growth plate fusion, adults with AGHD may require lifelong therapy to manage their condition.
Appropriate vs. Inappropriate HGH Use
| Feature | Appropriate Medical Use | Inappropriate Use (Anti-Aging, Bodybuilding) |
|---|---|---|
| Underlying Condition | Confirmed Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) in children or adults, or other specified medical conditions (e.g., Turner Syndrome, Prader-Willi). | Absence of a diagnosed medical condition; based on a desire for cosmetic or performance-enhancing effects. |
| Approval | Approved by regulatory bodies like the FDA for specific medical conditions. | Not approved by the FDA for anti-aging, bodybuilding, or performance enhancement. |
| Prescription & Supervision | Requires a prescription and close monitoring by a qualified endocrinologist. | Often obtained illegally, without medical supervision, risking serious health consequences. |
| Proven Benefits | Well-documented improvements in height for children with GHD and improved body composition and bone density for adults with AGHD. | Limited or no evidence of anti-aging benefits or increased strength in healthy individuals. |
| Risks | Potential side effects are monitored and managed by a doctor, but risks include fluid retention, joint pain, and increased blood sugar. | Increased risk of serious conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, diabetes, and certain cancers. |
| Legal Status (US) | Legal and regulated as a prescription medication. | Illegal to possess or distribute for any non-FDA-approved purpose. |
Risks and Side Effects Across Age Groups
While HGH therapy can be safe and effective when medically necessary and supervised, potential risks and side effects exist for both pediatric and adult patients. It is crucial to have ongoing monitoring by a specialist to manage these issues.
Pediatric side effects
- Joint and muscle pain
- Fluid retention
- Increased risk of scoliosis worsening due to rapid bone growth
- Increased risk of developing high blood sugar or type 2 diabetes over time
- Headaches and increased intracranial pressure (pseudotumor cerebri)
Adult side effects
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Increased risk of type 2 diabetes
- Swelling in arms and legs (edema)
- Gynecomastia (enlarged breasts) in men
- Joint and muscle pain
Special considerations for seniors
Medical experts, including those at Cedars-Sinai, caution against using HGH in older adults who are not deficient, as it may interfere with the body's natural processes. There is preclinical evidence suggesting that lower levels of growth hormone might actually be beneficial for longevity and reducing the risk of age-related diseases, particularly cancer.
Conclusion
There is no single appropriate age for HGH use, as its appropriateness is determined by a physician's diagnosis of a specific medical condition. For children, the optimal time is often early in life to maximize height gain before growth plates close, but therapy is strictly for those with diagnosed growth issues. For adults, treatment is for confirmed AGHD and not a cosmetic or anti-aging solution. The use of HGH for any unapproved purpose is illegal and poses significant health risks. Always consult with a qualified endocrinologist to determine the need and suitability of HGH therapy. For more information, visit the Mayo Clinic's resource on HGH.
