Hormones & Neuropeptides

HGH

Also known as: Human Growth Hormone · Somatropin · Somatotropin

The master anabolic and anti-aging hormone — the real deal on exogenous HGH.

Half-Life
~15–20 minutes (but IGF-1 effects last 24+ hours)
Administration
Subcutaneous injection
Category
Hormones & Neuropeptides
Citations
1 studies

What is HGH?

Human Growth Hormone (HGH, Somatropin) is a 191-amino acid peptide hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland. It is the most powerful anabolic and anti-aging hormone in the body, responsible for growth, body composition, metabolism, and tissue repair. Exogenous HGH is used by athletes, bodybuilders, and anti-aging physicians worldwide.

Mechanism of Action

HGH binds to GH receptors throughout the body, directly stimulating protein synthesis, fat breakdown (lipolysis), and glucose metabolism. It also stimulates the liver to produce IGF-1, which mediates many of HGH's anabolic effects. HGH increases lean mass, reduces fat mass, improves bone density, and has profound anti-aging effects.

HGH Dosing Protocol

Anti-aging/wellness: 1–2 IU/day subcutaneous (low dose, minimal side effects). Body composition: 2–4 IU/day. Performance: 4–6 IU/day (higher side effect risk). Inject subcutaneously, ideally before bed or post-workout on an empty stomach. Cycle: 3–6 months minimum for anti-aging benefits.

Administration Routes
Subcutaneous injection
Half-Life
~15–20 minutes (but IGF-1 effects last 24+ hours)

Want a personalized protocol? Tell PepBot your goals, health status, and experience level for a custom HGH protocol.

HGH Benefits

Increased lean muscle mass
Significant fat loss (especially visceral)
Improved bone density
Enhanced recovery
Anti-aging effects (skin, energy, cognition)
Improved sleep quality
Cardiovascular benefits at low doses

Side Effect Profile

Dose-dependent: water retention, carpal tunnel syndrome, joint pain, insulin resistance (glucose intolerance), potential for acromegaly at very high doses. At low doses (1–2 IU/day), generally well-tolerated. Suppresses natural GH production with long-term use.

HGH Stacking Guide

HGH works synergistically with these compounds. Click any to learn more, or ask PepBot to build you a complete stack.

Research & Citations

Frequently Asked Questions about HGH

What is the difference between HGH and GH secretagogues (Ipamorelin, Sermorelin)?
Exogenous HGH bypasses pituitary regulation — you're injecting the actual hormone. GH secretagogues (Ipamorelin, Sermorelin, CJC-1295) stimulate your pituitary to produce GH naturally. Secretagogues are safer long-term (pituitary self-regulates, no suppression), cheaper, and don't cause acromegaly. HGH is more potent and predictable but suppresses natural production and has more side effects.
What are optimal IGF-1 levels on HGH?
On HGH therapy, target IGF-1 levels of 250–350 ng/mL (upper-normal range for a 30-year-old). This is typically achieved with 2–4 IU/day. Monitor IGF-1 every 4–6 weeks and adjust dose accordingly. IGF-1 above 400 ng/mL increases cancer and acromegaly risk.

Still have questions about HGH?

PepBot has encyclopedic knowledge of HGH — dosing, stacking, interactions, latest research, and personalized protocols. Ask anything.