As we age, endogenous production of Growth Hormone declines aggressively. In most patients, Growth Hormone and Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 levels will drop 15% per decade after the age of 30. Additionally, growth hormone receptor density decreases, reducing cellular uptake of growth hormone at target cells. Decline of endogenous GH and IGF-I production can contribute to a variety of symptoms and adverse physical effects, including:

 

• Increased body fat, especially in the abdominal region
• Loss of muscle mass
• Decreased bone density
• Decreased muscular strength
• Reduced cardiovascular capacity
• Dry and thinning skin, loss of elasticity
• Atherogenic changes in cholesterol profile
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Lessened sleep quality
• Decreased immune response
• Reduced connective tissue health

What are Growth Hormone Releasing Peptides?

 

Peptides are formulated amino acid-based chains that enhance the body’s natural means of growth hormone production. Unlike exogenous growth hormone, peptides are not neuro-endocrine suppressive, conversely, they improve the function of somatotrophs (GH Producing Cells) and inhibit the expression of somatostatin (GHIH). Peptides stimulate growth hormone expression in a pulsatile manner like natural growth hormone patterns prior to decline. Because peptides enhance the body’s natural neuro-endocrine function, patients receive all the benefits of GH therapy without the unwanted side effects, e.g., acromegaly, stomach distention, and elevated blood glucose.