Human Growth Hormones
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)
hCG is a naturally occurring protein hormone produced by the developing
fetus and detected in most home pregnancy kits. hCG stimulates the
development of natural male and female sex steroids. The increase in
testosterone levels in males by the use of hCG would stimulate muscle
development as with anabolic steroids. hCG is not banned in female
athletes because it would not lead to muscle development and might
naturally occur in high levels if the athlete is pregnant. The side
effects of hCG in males are the same as those of anabolic steroids.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
LH is a
peptide hormone secreted by the pituitary gland at the base of the
brain. LH is important for maintaining normal levels of testosterone in
the male and estrogen in the female. In women, a surge of LH during
mid-cycle is the signal for ovulation. In men, excess LH or artificial
LH derivatives (tamoxifen) would increase testosterone levels and have
the same effects as anabolic steroids. Although no general side effects
exist, any possible side effects might be similar to those of anabolic
steroids.
Human Growth Hormone (hGH)
hGH is
a naturally occurring protein hormone produced by the pituitary gland
and is important for normal human growth and development, especially in
children and teenagers. Low hGH levels in children and teenagers result
in dwarfism. Excessive hGH levels increase muscle mass by stimulating
protein synthesis, strengthen bones by stimulating bone growth and
reduce body fat by stimulating the breakdown of fat cells. Use of hGH
has become increasingly popular because it is difficult to detect. Side
effects include:
- Overgrowth of hands, feet, and face (acromegaly) because of the increased muscle and bone development in these parts
- Enlarged internal organs, especially heart, kidneys, tongue and liver
- Heart problems
Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF-1)
IGF-1,
which is also called somatomedin-C, is a naturally occurring protein
that helps in the action of hGH. It also stimulates protein synthesis
and reduces fat.
Excessive IGF-1 would increase muscle and bone mass as hGH does. Side
effects include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and other side effects
similar to hGH.
Insulin
Insulin is a natural
protein hormone produced by the pancreas, which is important for
metabolism of sugars, starches, fats, and proteins. It is necessary for
the treatment of juvenile (Type 1) diabetes.
In athletes, insulin combined with anabolic steroids or hGH could
increase muscle mass by stimulating protein synthesis. Side effects are
mainly low blood sugar associated with shaking, nausea and weakness,
but excessive hypoglycemia can lead to coma and death.
