Human Growth Hormone Therapy For Kids - Is It Worth The Risk?

Human growth hormone is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. When the pituitary gland does not produce sufficient growth hormone, growth is slower than usual. Initially used for children with growth disorders, HGH prescription medication is also used with adults who have a growth hormone deficiency.

Deficiency of HGH can be problematic, resulting in growth hormone deficiency syndrome caused by an underactive pituitary gland. This deficiency results in stunted growth in children. The prime cause of HGH deficiency may be due to a malfunctioning pituitary gland or an injury to apart of the brain called the hypothalamus.

Research proves that HGH therapy is quite suitable for children. However, before undergoing any sort of HGH treatment, it is necessary to understand the possible negative side effects of taking growth hormones. Side effects may include increased risks of ear infection, abdominal pain or bloating, headache, nausea, changes in vision, skin rash or itching, carpal tunnel syndrome, joint pain, muscle pain, fatigue, enlargement of breasts and swelling of hands, feet or lower legs.

Healthy children with normal growth should not be given HGH injections as they may experience additional health risks. Only if a child's height is more than two standard deviations below the mean for age and gender should this treatment be considered. Additional chronic effects of continued HGH use can include the following:

Cancer - Elevated risks of prostate and breast cancer are a serious concern with long-term use of growth hormone therapy. You also have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer later in life.

Renal Complications - Constant use of HGH may lead to severe renal complications. Since your kidneys have to filter blood at a higher rate caused by a higher flow of blood, your kidneys experience increased stress.

Cardiovascular Risks - HGH supplementation in children may lead to enlargement of the heart, hardening of arteries and high blood pressure.

Metabolic Changes - Children taking HGH show a higher rate of metabolism. As a result, their body fat decreases substantially and can cause the child to become incongruously lean. This can make the child more susceptible to other illness and injuries.

Compared to the side effects of treatment, which are rare, the benefits of growth hormone treatment are often obvious in a child suffering from HGH deficiency for a long time: by providing synthetic supplements of HGH that are similar to natural growth hormones secreted by the pituitary gland, children will begin to grow noticeably faster. Healthy children who happen to be naturally short, on the other hand, do not benefit from this treatment. Other benefits of providing HGH supplements to a child include increased strength, progress in motor development, and reduction of body fat.

In conclusion, providing growth hormone therapy to children deficient in HGH is worth the risk, with rare side effects and obvious benefits.