Growth Hormone (HGH, STH, Somatropin) is a substance still shrouded in mystery. Biologically, HGH is a **polypeptide hormone consisting of 191 amino acids** and is naturally produced in the anterior pituitary gland. Its release is pulsatile, mainly regulated by two hypothalamic neuropeptides: the stimulating **GHRH** (Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone) and the inhibiting **Somatostatin**.

It was first isolated in the 1950s from the pituitary glands of deceased individuals. Its original and still crucial medical application is the treatment of **pituitary dwarfism (HGH deficiency)**, characterized by growth and muscle development failure in children.

Production Breakthrough: The extraction of HGH from human pituitaries was discontinued in 1984 due to the risk of transmitting the fatal Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. Thanks to the development of genetic engineering (DNA recombination), scientists, particularly the pharmaceutical company **Lilly** (with the preparation "Humatrope"), successfully created a synthetic Growth Hormone that was 100% identical to natural HGH (known as rhGH – recombinant human HGH). Humatrope remains one of the most known and widely used products today.

The action of Growth Hormone is complex and occurs on two main levels:

• **Direct Action:** HGH directly stimulates lipolysis (fat burning) and inhibits glucose uptake by muscles, favoring the use of fatty acids as fuel.
• **Indirect Action (IGF-1):** The most important anabolic effects of HGH are indirect. After release into the bloodstream, HGH travels to the liver, where it stimulates the production of **IGF-1** (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1). IGF-1 is the main factor responsible for:
• **Hyperplasia** (increase in the number of muscle cells).
• **Protein synthesis** and regeneration.
• **Growth of cartilage and bones** (in individuals still growing).

This is why proper HGH application often requires considering the entire hormonal system, including interaction with insulin and thyroid hormones, to maximize conversion to IGF-1.

For athletes, the most important effects are anabolic and lipolytic (fat loss). HGH entered professional **bodybuilding** circles in the early 1980s. A comparison of physiques from the late 70s and early 80s reveals a giant leap in definition and mass. Bodybuilders began to exhibit not only greater weight but also better **muscle density**, along with a noticeable, previously unseen development of leg muscles – especially **full quadriceps**.

This revolutionary trend proved that Growth Hormone surpasses other compounds. It is considered the most potent and effective anabolic hormone available for muscle development and fat reduction, due to its ability to induce **hyperplasia** (increasing the number, not just the volume, of muscle cells).

A further mass explosion occurred in the early 90s thanks to the **combination of HGH with Insulin**. Insulin use allows for more efficient utilization of glucose and amino acids, which, combined with the anabolic effect of HGH/IGF-1, leads to maximal gains. However, this is an advanced and risky strategy requiring profound knowledge.

**Those who can handle Growth Hormone correctly** can dream of spectacular results. Incorrect application, lack of optimization in dosing and timing, and neglecting synergy with other hormones often lead to disappointment or intensified side effects.

Proper HGH usage requires an understanding of its pharmacokinetics. Below are general guidelines:

• **Timing:** HGH is usually injected in the morning, fasted (before breakfast), to maximize lipolysis, or post-workout. Evening administration is typically avoided so as not to disrupt the natural, peak nighttime secretion.
• **Therapeutic Dosing:** Low doses are used for anti-aging and regenerative purposes (e.g., 1-2 IU daily).
• **Bodybuilding Dosing:** Higher doses are used for mass building and fat loss, often divided into 2-3 injections per day to maintain stable IGF-1 levels.
• **Cycles:** Due to HGH's slow action and the IGF-1 synthesis it induces, cycles usually last from 4 to 6 months, or even longer.

Warning: It must always be remembered that using HGH outside of strict medical indications is not recommended and is associated with risks. All dosing should be consulted with a specialist.