HGH (Somatropin)
Recombinant human growth hormone
The reference GH compound, studied for body composition, recovery, bone density and tissue repair.
How it works
Recombinant human growth hormone, or somatropin, is the reference compound for the entire growth hormone research field. It binds GH receptors both in the liver and in peripheral tissues, and hepatic receptor binding is the primary driver of circulating IGF-1 production, the downstream signal responsible for many of GH's reported effects.
Beyond the IGF-1 axis, direct GH receptor activation in adipose and muscle tissue is studied for driving lipolysis and supporting protein synthesis, distinguishing it from GH secretagogues that only stimulate the body's own limited, pulsatile release.
Adult growth hormone deficiency trials, the best-studied population for this compound, report reduced fat mass, increased lean mass, and improved bone mineral density over 6 to 12 month periods, with glucose and IGF-1 monitoring standard across all published protocols given the known dose-dependent decline in insulin sensitivity.
What research has shown
Adult GH-deficiency trials report reduced fat mass, increased lean mass and improved bone mineral density over 6 to 12 months.
Reported ranges in the literature
Low end
1 to 2 IU daily (general wellness range in literature)
Optimal
2 to 4 IU daily
High end
4 to 6 IU daily; insulin sensitivity declines with dose
Frequency reported in the literature: Daily, often split AM/PM. Note: Glucose and IGF-1 monitoring is standard in all published protocols.
Frequently asked questions
What is HGH?
HGH, or somatropin, is recombinant human growth hormone, the reference compound studied for body composition, recovery, bone density, and tissue repair.
How does HGH differ from GH secretagogues like CJC-1295 or ipamorelin?
HGH is the hormone itself, administered directly, while secretagogues stimulate the pituitary to increase the body's own natural, pulsatile GH release. Direct HGH administration produces more sustained receptor activation than the pulsatile pattern from secretagogues.
What does the research show?
Adult GH-deficiency trials report reduced fat mass, increased lean mass, and improved bone mineral density over 6 to 12 months of study.
What monitoring does the literature emphasize?
Glucose and IGF-1 monitoring is standard in all published protocols, given the known relationship between elevated GH signaling and reduced insulin sensitivity at higher doses.
How long are research blocks typically?
Published GH-deficiency trials generally spanned 6 to 12 months to capture durable changes in body composition and bone density.
Related compounds
Further reading
Research use only
All content on this page is general reference information for laboratory research contexts. It is not medical advice, is not intended to direct human use, and does not replace guidance from a licensed healthcare professional. Not for human consumption. Must be 18+.