O Growth hormone (GH) usually causes few side effects and is well tolerated, provided it is used correctly, according to medical prescription. Local reactions of the application are rare, but pain at the application site and redness may occur.
In adults, the major side effects of GH are related to the water retention that growth hormone can promote, leading to:
- Swelling;
- Joint or muscle pain;
- Tingling of extremities, usually related to carpal tunnel syndrome.
The use of GH may rarely cause benign intracranial hypertension ("pseudotumor syndrome"), which causes headache, vomiting, vision changes, agitation or changes in walking.
GH growth hormone is present in all people and is produced by the pituitary gland, located at the base of the skull, being very important for growth from the first years of life.
GH replacement therapy is indicated for all individuals with GH deficiency by the pituitary gland. In childhood, GH may be beneficial for girls with Turner Syndrome due to their short stature, in babies with small sizes for gestational age, people with Prader-Willi Syndrome, children with chronic renal failure, among others.
Growth hormone (GH) should be prescribed by your doctor endocrinologist.
