FAQ on human growth hormone

Q. Will Dr. Chen prescribe human growth hormone (HGH) for me?

A. HGH injections are currently very controversial and there has been much publicity in the recent past regarding its illegal use by the anti-aging industry.  The FDA continues to investigate the illegal distribution and/or prescription of HGH, mostly for anti-aging and bodybuilding claims.  It is extremely costly ($10-20 thousand per year) and is usually not covered by insurance. It is only legal to prescribe this hormone to patients with documented deficiency within the United States, per FDA regulations.  Dr. Chen recommends patients study Dr. Jay Olshansky's, PhD, article:  "New Developments in the Illegal Provision of Growth Hormone for 'Anti-Aging' and Bodybuilding" in JAMA, vol. 299, no. 23, June 18, 2008, for an updated synopsis of this topic.  Partial viewing of the article is available at the JAMA website.  Dr. Chen does not prescribe HGH for patients. It is her opinion that other, less controversial problems be addressed first before turning to HGH. For example, if a woman is suffering from nightly insomnia since entering menopause, then initiating HRT is more likely to restore sleep, and allow the natural production of HGH, which is secreted during the deep stages of sleep.