Treatment of growth hormone deficiency in adults

J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2000 Mar;85(3):933-42. doi: 10.1210/jcem.85.3.6487-1.

Abstract

In analogy with other hormonal replacement therapy GH treatment should be commenced with a low starting dose, independent of body weight or body surface area. Hormonal replacement should mimic the normal physiology to minimize the risk of side effects in the life-long replacement of adults. We should, therefore, consider individual responsiveness and also be aware of the difference between pattern of GH under normal condition and during s.c. administration. The safety and monitoring of GH replacement therapy in adults have been addressed in the Growth Hormone Research Society Consensus Guidelines for Diagnosis and Treatment of Adults with GH Deficiency from the Port Stephens Workshop, April 1997. Besides finding better and more accurate biochemical markers for choosing correct GH replacement dose, future research should address the long-term benefits and safety with GH replacement in adults, with special emphasize on incipient risks in terms of cardiovascular disease and of neoplasia, in particular.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / epidemiology
  • Growth Hormone / therapeutic use*
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy
  • Human Growth Hormone / deficiency*
  • Human Growth Hormone / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Human Growth Hormone
  • Growth Hormone