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HGH (Somatotropin)

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Growth hormone is a protein molecule containing approximately 190 amino acids, produced by the anterior pituitary gland. Unlike other hormones that act on a single target, growth hormone is effective in multiple tissues throughout the body. Growth hormone is not only responsible for the development of bones, muscles, and organs but also increases the rate of protein synthesis in body cells, insulin resistance, and the transport of fatty acids into the blood. Additionally, it promotes the healthy utilization of free fatty acids. It regulates growth and weight to ensure they align with expected levels based on sex, age, and genetics. This growth curve also serves as an indicator of overall health.

Growth hormone secretion increases during childhood and peaks during adolescence. As puberty progresses, GH levels begin to decline and decrease further in middle age. GH secretion varies based on factors such as sex, age, blood protein levels, sleep-wake cycles, and physical activity.

  • Avoid fatty foods for 24 hours before the test.
  • Do not eat for 12 hours before the test.
  • Do not take medications for 24 hours before the test (unless approved by your doctor).
  • Avoid physical and emotional stress for 24 hours before the test.
  • Do not smoke for 3 hours before the test.
  • Growth delay in early childhood – when a child is significantly shorter than peers.
  • Thyroid gland diagnostics – for example, if free T4 levels rule out hypothyroidism, as thyroid dysfunction can also slow growth.
  • X-ray imaging indicating delayed bone growth.
  • Suspected pituitary dysfunction – if there is reason to believe pituitary gland activity is reduced.

Growth hormone test results should be interpreted with caution. GH secretion fluctuates constantly (this may be represented by a wavy line on a graph), so multiple measurements are required for accurate assessment, followed by averaging the results. It is crucial not to mistake daily fluctuations in hormone levels for abnormalities.

GH levels tend to rise in the morning and after exercise. GH results should be compared with insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) levels and the body's response to stimulation and suppression tests.