(ATDN) Human growth hormone

(ATDN) Human growth hormone

Treatment Review No. 14; November 1994

An alternative to anabolic steroids is human growth hormone (rHGH), which is now being studied in people with AIDS. rHGH produced significant weight gain and increase in muscle strength among the men in two earlier trials. The weight gain does not last after therapy stops, so life-long treatment with this very expensive substance may be needed. Long-term side effects of treatment with rHGH supplementation are unknown.

rHGH is a synthetic version of human growth hormone derived from the pituitary gland. It is made by genetic engineering, and has been approved in the US for several years for treating growth hormone deficiency in children. Side effects of rGHG include joint aches, fevers and high blood pressure. A study sponsored by Serono Laboratories Inc. has shown that human growth hormone can reverse AIDS-associated wasting. The drug is not yet approved by the FDA for this treatment. Serono is currently sponsoring another trial of the drug which will focus on its safety.

Serostim is the brand name for Serono's version of rHGH. Serostim was recently approved for emergency compassionate use by the Health Protection Branch in Canada (1-800-935-8853). Canadian access must be through your doctor who must provide you with a prescription with appropriate dosing. A personal use statement must be submitted with the prescription and both must include the two names of the product, Serostim and recombinant human growth hormone. Canadian officials will expect cash up front. Some insurance companies may cover the cost of rHGH with receipts. The cost at the recommended dosage is $875 a week.

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This information is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
©1994. AEGIS.