The generic name for human growth hormone (hGH) is somatotropin. Somatotropin is a 191-amino acid, single-chain polypeptide hormone that is synthesized, stored and secreted by the somatotroph cells within the lateral wings of the anterior pituitary gland.
Key facts about somatotropin:
- Scientific name: Somatotropin or somatropin
- Produced by: Somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary gland
- Main functions: Stimulates growth, cell reproduction and regeneration
Somatotropin plays a vital role in:
- Linear growth via the stimulation of systemic and local production of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)
- Metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins
- Regulation of fluid and mineral balance
~~Somatotropin also has effects on muscle growth, bone strength, skin thickness and even heart function.~~
Secretion of somatotropin is controlled by:
- Stimulatory hormones ~~such as ghrelin~~
- ~~Inhibitory hormones such as somatostatin~~
- Negative feedback from IGF-1 levels
Somatotropin levels peak during key growth periods:
- Infancy
- Puberty
- Pregnancy (in women)
After we stop growing,
somatotropin levels decrease significantly but remain present at much lower levels throughout adulthood to maintain various metabolic processes.
As we age, somatotropin levels decline progressively which contributes to:
- Decreased muscle mass and strength
- Reduced bone mineral density
- Increased fat accumulation
- Impaired cardiac output
- Lower energy and wellbeing
Somatotropin deficiency either in childhood or adulthood can be treated by replacing the missing hormone.
Somatotropin injections are commonly used for treatment, under strict medical guidance to ensure proper dosing.
Potential side effects with somatotropin therapy include:
- Joint pain, swelling or stiffness
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Increased insulin resistance
Careful monitoring during treatment is essential to minimize risks.
At Hormone Health Clinic, our specialized endocrinologists have over 20 years of experience successfully treating growth disorders and hormonal imbalances in children and adults with bioidentical hormone therapies. Contact us today to find out how we can help you optimize wellness through precision hormone correction. First consultation is free!
Now back to some additional key facts about
somatotropin:
- Also known as hGH (human Growth Hormone)
- A recombinant form called somatropin is synthetically manufactured for therapeutic use
- Available in injectable formulations for improved absorption
- Used in children and adolescents for treating stunted growth disorders
- Also used in adults for GH deficiency due to pituitary tumors, trauma or other damage
| Disorder | Effects |
|-|-|
|
Childhood hGH deficiency | Impaired growth velocity, short stature |
|
Adult hGH deficiency | Increased body fat, decreased muscle mass and bone density, adverse lipid profile, reduced exercise capacity, impaired quality of life |
In summary,
somatotropin or hGH is an essential hormone produced in the pituitary gland that stimulates linear growth in childhood as well as continuing to support metabolism, body composition and general wellbeing in adults. Therapeutic preparations are available to treat deficiencies under medical supervision.
I hope this overview has helped explain ~~what is~~ the generic name for hGH (
somatotropin) as well as highlighting its key functions in the body! Let me know if you have any other questions.