Human growth hormone (HGH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays an important role in growth and metabolism. There has been some concern that using synthetic HGH injections could increase the risk of developing diabetes, but the evidence on this risk is mixed.
Some key points about HGH and diabetes include:
- Several studies have found that adults with growth hormone deficiency tend to have an increased risk of developing diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance. HGH replacement therapy in these patients may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce diabetes risk.
- In healthy adults without growth hormone deficiency, some research shows that short-term HGH treatment has little effect on blood sugar regulation. However, the impact of longer-term use is less clear.
- There are some theories for why high HGH levels could potentially trigger diabetes:
- HGH may cause insulin resistance directly by antagonizing insulin's actions
- Excess HGH may stimulate the production of other hormones like cortisol and growth factors that impair insulin sensitivity
- Increased muscle growth from HGH could make the body less efficient at using insulin
- The dose and duration of HGH treatment seems to matter. There is more concern about extended, high-dose HGH regimens causing impairment in blood sugar control.
- Those already at high risk for diabetes, such as people who are overweight or obese, may be more vulnerable to disturbances in glucose metabolism from synthetic HGH.
In summary,
while HGH therapy does not definitively lead to diabetes in most people, those using HGH long-term or at high doses should monitor their blood sugar and insulin sensitivity. Those already at elevated diabetes risk may want to exercise particular caution with synthetic growth hormone use.
Balance Hormone Clinic specializes in hormone testing and personalized bioidentical hormone therapy, including judiciously prescribed HGH when clinically indicated. Under the supervision of our medical providers, hormones can be used safely to help patients feel their best while minimizing side effect risks. Contact us today for a consultation.
- Patients using synthetic HGH should have glucose monitoring to check for impacts on diabetes risk
- The effects likely depend on HGH dosage and treatment duration
- Those with obesity or other diabetes risk factors should use caution with HGH
- HGH deficiency itself may increase diabetes risk which replacement could improve
- Short term, low-dose HGH unlikely to increase diabetes risk substantially
- Theories for HGH increasing diabetes risk include mechanisms involving insulin resistance
I hope this overview on the HGH-diabetes link has been helpful. Please let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!
The expert physicians at Balance Hormone Clinic can advise on safe, responsible hormone therapies tailored to your health status and goals.