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Growth Hormone 

Growth hormone (GH) plays a vital role in maintaining health throughout life—not just during childhood growth. In adults, it helps regulate body composition, supports muscle mass and strength, promotes fat metabolism, maintains skin elasticity, and assists in cellular repair. GH also influences mood, energy levels, and cognitive function.

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As we age, natural growth hormone levels decline, which can contribute to increased fat accumulation, reduced muscle tone, thinning skin, and lower vitality. In anti-aging medicine, optimizing GH levels—whether through lifestyle changes or medical therapy—is often part of a comprehensive strategy to support healthy aging and restore youthful function.

Key Functions of Growth Hormone (GH)

References

  1. Veldhuis JD, et al. (2005). Growth Hormone Dynamics in Healthy Aging Adults. Endocrine Reviews.

  2. Rudman D, et al. (1990). Effects of human growth hormone in men over 60 years old. N Engl J Med.

  3. Savine R, Sönksen P. (2000). Growth hormone—hormone replacement for the somatopause? Horm Res.

  4. Ho K, et al. (2003). Consensus guidelines for adult GH deficiency diagnosis and treatment. J Clin Endocrinol Metab.

Supports lean muscle mass

GH helps preserve and build muscle, especially when paired with resistance exercise.

Promotes fat metabolism

It stimulates the breakdown of fat for energy, especially belly (visceral) fat.

Improves skin health

GH supports collagen production, helping skin stay firm, thick, and elastic.

Enhances exercise recovery and tissue repair

GH boosts cell regeneration and healing after injuries or workouts.

Maintains bone density

It helps keep bones strong and reduces the risk of osteoporosis with age.

Regulates energy and mood

GH affects neurotransmitters, contributing to better mood, vitality, and mental focus.

Supports cardiovascular health

Low GH is linked to higher LDL cholesterol and increased cardiovascular risk.

Improves sleep architecture

GH release is tied to deep (slow-wave) sleep and may help improve sleep quality.

What Causes Low Growth Hormone in Aging

  • Natural aging (Somatopause)
    GH levels decline 10–15% per decade after age 30. This is the primary cause of low GH in healthy adults.

  • Poor sleep quality
    GH is mainly released during deep sleep. Sleep disturbances or insomnia significantly reduce GH secretion.

  • Chronic stress and high cortisol
    Long-term stress blunts GH pulses by raising cortisol, which suppresses pituitary hormone release.

  • Lack of exercise
    A sedentary lifestyle reduces GH stimulation. High-intensity or resistance exercise boosts natural GH release.

  • Excess body fat (especially belly fat)
    Visceral fat increases insulin resistance, which inhibits GH production and its action.

  • High sugar and frequent meals
    Elevated insulin levels from sugar or constant eating suppress GH secretion.

  • Hormonal imbalances
    Low testosterone, estrogen, thyroid hormones, or high prolactin may disrupt GH rhythm.

  • Certain medications
    Long-term use of corticosteroids or some psychiatric drugs can interfere with GH release.

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References

  1. Veldhuis JD, et al. (2005). The aging somatotropic axis: effects on body composition and function. Endocr Rev.

  2. Van Cauter E, et al. (2000). Effects of sleep and circadian rhythms on the human growth hormone axis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab.

  3. Iranmanesh A, et al. (1991). Impact of obesity on the 24-hour growth hormone secretion. J Clin Endocrinol Metab.

  4. Ho K, et al. (2003). Consensus guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of GH deficiency in adults. J Clin Endocrinol Metab.

Somatopause Self-Check Questionnaire

What to Do with Your Results

  • 0–3 boxes checked: Likely normal aging, but still worth monitoring your health.

  • 4–7 boxes checked: Possible early signs of somatopause. Lifestyle improvements may help.

  • 8+ boxes checked: Consider consulting a doctor for hormone evaluation, including IGF-1 testing.

References

  1. Veldhuis JD, et al. (2005). The aging somatotropic axis: effects on body composition and function. Endocrine Reviews.

  2. Rudman D, et al. (1990). Effects of human growth hormone in men over 60 years old. New England Journal of Medicine.

  3. Iranmanesh A, et al. (1991). Impact of obesity on the 24-hour growth hormone secretion. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.

  4. Ho K, et al. (2003). Consensus guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of GH deficiency in adults. J Clin Endocrinol Metab.

  5. Savine R, Sönksen P. (2000). Growth hormone—hormone replacement for the somatopause? Hormone Research.

Body Composition

☐ I have more belly fat than I used to, even without changing my diet
☐ I find it harder to build or maintain muscle
☐ My body feels softer or less toned
☐ I've gained weight, especially around the waist

Energy & Physical Performance

☐ I feel tired more easily during the day
☐ I have less stamina for exercise or daily tasks
☐ My physical recovery from workouts or injuries is slower than before

Skin, Hair & Aging Appearance

☐ My skin feels thinner or less firm
☐ I notice more wrinkles or sagging skin
☐ My hair is thinning or lacks vitality

Mood & Brain Function

☐ I feel mentally slower or have trouble focusing
☐ I feel more anxious or low in mood than usual
☐ I have trouble sleeping or don’t feel refreshed in the morning

Other Signs

☐ My bone density has decreased or I’ve had fractures
☐ My libido is lower than before
☐ I bruise more easily or heal more slowly from cuts

Treatment 

To support natural growth hormone (GH) production and reverse the symptoms of somatopause—such as increased belly fat, poor sleep, reduced muscle tone, and low energy—we use peptide therapy combined with lifestyle modifications.

CJC-1295 (no DAC)

This peptide mimics the body’s natural Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH). It signals the pituitary gland to release GH in a rhythmic and controlled way, especially during sleep.

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Ipamorelin:

Ipamorelin mimics ghrelin, the “hunger hormone,” and stimulates another pathway in the pituitary to release GH without increasing appetite or cortisol. When used together with CJC-1295, it creates a strong but safe boost in natural GH levels.

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Lifestyle Therapy to Support GH Levels

In addition to peptide therapy, specific lifestyle habits can naturally support your body’s growth hormone (GH) production. These strategies not only enhance treatment results but also promote long-term hormonal balance.

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1. Prioritize Deep Sleep
Growth hormone is mostly released during deep sleep, especially in the early part of the night.
 Fun Fact: A single night of sleep deprivation can reduce GH release by up to 70% the next day.

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2. Avoid Late-Night Eating
High insulin levels from meals, especially carbs, can block GH secretion.
Fun Fact: After a 24-hour fast, GH levels can rise 2- to 5-fold, showing how powerful fasting is for hormone stimulation.

 

3. Do Resistance Training and HIIT
Exercise triggers GH release naturally, especially high-intensity or weight-based workouts.
Fun Fact: Just 10 minutes of intense sprinting can increase GH levels by up to 450% for the next hour.

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4. Manage Chronic Stress
Stress hormones like cortisol suppress natural GH rhythms.
Fun Fact: Older adults with higher perceived stress levels have significantly blunted GH pulses, even with normal sleep and exercise habits.

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📚 References

  1. Van Cauter E, et al. (2000). Effects of sleep and circadian rhythms on the human growth hormone axis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab.

  2. Ho KY, et al. (1988). Fasting enhances growth hormone secretion and amplifies the GH response to GHRH. J Clin Invest.

  3. Weltman A, et al. (1992). Growth hormone response to resistance exercise in trained and untrained men. Can J Appl Physiol.

  4. Veldhuis JD, et al. (2005). The aging somatotropic axis: effects on body composition and function. Endocr Rev.

Read More

CJC-1295

Each vial contains 5 mg of lyophilized CJC-1295.

How to Reconstitute

  1. Use 2 mL sterile or bacteriostatic water to reconstitute the vial

  2. Gently swirl (do not shake) until fully dissolved

  3. After reconstitution:

    • 1 mg = 0.4 mL

    • 150 mcg = 0.06 mL = 6 units on a 100-unit insulin syringe

  4. Store reconstituted vial in the refrigerator (2–8°C) and use within 30 days

How to Use

  • Inject 150 mcg (6 units) of reconstituted CJC-1295 subcutaneously

  • The most common site is the abdomen—inject into the fatty area at least 2 inches away from the belly button, avoiding veins, scars, or bruises, as this area absorbs peptides well.

  • You can draw both CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin into the same syringe and inject them together in one shot—this makes it simpler, less painful, and more convenient than doing two separate injections.

  • Before bedtime after at least 3 hours of fasting to match the natural GH surge during deep sleep

  • Frequency: 5 days per week ( Monday to Friday)

Half-Life 

  • The half-life of CJC-1295 (no DAC) is approximately 30 minutes

  • Despite its short half-life, it effectively stimulates GH pulses that have lasting effects over 24 hours

  • Pulsatile release mimics natural physiology and minimizes risk of GH suppression

Common Side Effects

Side effects at the 150 mcg dose are uncommon but may include:

  • Mild redness or itching at the injection site

  • Temporary bloating or lightheadedness (rare)

Contraindications

  • Have active cancer or a history of hormone-sensitive cancers

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding

  • Have uncontrolled diabetes or very high IGF-1 levels

Drug Interactions

At this dose, interactions are rare, but we review your medical history to ensure safety.

  • Caution with concurrent use of growth hormone or insulin

How to Store

  • Keep in the refrigerator at 2–8°C (36–46°F)
    – This helps preserve stability and potency over time.

  • Store in original packaging
    – Keep the vial in its box or light-protected container to avoid UV exposure.

  • Do not freeze
    – Freezing can damage the peptide structure.

  • Keep dry and unopened
    – Moisture, heat, or frequent temperature changes can degrade the lyophilized powder.

When to Contact Us

  • Persistent injection site irritation

  • Unusual fatigue or sleep changes

  • Any unexpected symptoms after starting therapy

We're here to support your progress and adjust the protocol as needed.

When to Expect Results

Most patients notice improvements within 2–4 weeks, including:

  • Deeper, more restful sleep

  • Better morning energy

  • Improved recovery from exercise

  • Subtle changes in body composition

Full benefits may take 6–8 weeks or more depending on your starting hormone levels, age, and lifestyle.

What if I miss a dose ?

  • If you forget your bedtime dose, you may inject it the next morning before food (only if within 12 hours)

  • If it’s already late in the day, skip the dose and resume as scheduled the next night

  • Do not double up doses

Ipamorelin

Each vial contains 5 mg of lyophilized Ipamorelin.

How to Reconstitute

  1. Use 2 mL sterile or bacteriostatic water to reconstitute the vial

  2. Gently swirl (do not shake) until fully dissolved

  3. After reconstitution:

    • 1 mg = 0.4 mL

    • 150 mcg = 0.06 mL = 6 units on a 100-unit insulin syringe

  4. Store reconstituted vial in the refrigerator (2–8°C) and use within 30 days

How to Use

  • Inject 150 mcg (6 units) of reconstituted Ipamorelin subcutaneously

  • The most common site is the abdomen—inject into the fatty area at least 2 inches away from the belly button, avoiding veins, scars, or bruises, as this area absorbs peptides well.

  • You can draw both CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin into the same syringe and inject them together in one shot—this makes it simpler, less painful, and more convenient than doing two separate injections.

  • Before bedtime after at least 3 hours of fasting to match the natural GH surge during deep sleep

  • Frequency: 5 days per week ( Monday to Friday)

Half-Life 

  • The half-life of Ipamorelin is approximately 2 hours

  • Although short-acting, it causes a sharp and physiologic pulse of GH, promoting fat burning, cell repair, and recovery during sleep

  • When used with CJC-1295, the effect is synergistic and longer-lasting

Common Side Effects

Side effects at the 150 mcg dose are uncommon but may include:

  • Mild redness or itching at the injection site

  • Temporary bloating or lightheadedness (rare)

Contraindications

  • Have active cancer or a history of hormone-sensitive cancers

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding

  • Have significantly elevated IGF-1 levels or uncontrolled diabetes

Drug Interactions

  • Interactions are unlikely at this dose

  • We always review your medications to ensure safety, especially if combining with:

    • Growth hormone therapy

    • Insulin or diabetic medications

    • Other peptides or hormonal therapies

How to Store

  • Keep in the refrigerator at 2–8°C (36–46°F)
    – This helps preserve stability and potency over time.

  • Store in original packaging
    – Keep the vial in its box or light-protected container to avoid UV exposure.

  • Do not freeze
    – Freezing can damage the peptide structure.

  • Keep dry and unopened
    – Moisture, heat, or frequent temperature changes can degrade the lyophilized powder.

When to Contact Us

  • New or persistent injection site reactions

  • Unusual fatigue, sleep changes, or mood shifts

  • Any other new or unexpected symptoms

  • We are here to help you adjust your protocol for the best results.

When to Expect Results

Most patients begin to notice changes within 2–4 weeks, including:

  • Improved sleep depth and recovery

  • Better morning energy

  • Enhanced workout recovery

  • Subtle body composition changes (more muscle tone, less fat)

Full effects become more noticeable after 6–8 weeks of consistent use.

What if I miss a dose ?

  • If you forget a dose at night, you may inject it the next morning before eating (only if within 12 hours)

  • If it’s already daytime or you’ve eaten, skip the dose and resume your normal schedule the next night

  • Do not double your next dose to catch up

Why We Choose Peptide Therapy Instead of Growth Hormone Injections

At our clinic, we prioritize both effectiveness and long-term safety. That’s why we often recommend peptide therapy (CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin) to support your natural growth hormone function — instead of using direct growth hormone (GH) injections.

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  • Teichman SL, et al. (2006). Prolonged stimulation of GH and IGF-1 by CJC-1295, a long-acting GHRH analog, in healthy adults. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. https://doi.org/10.1210/jc.2005-1536

  • Gobburu JV, et al. (1999). Pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic modeling of Ipamorelin, a GH-releasing peptide, in human volunteers. Pharm Res.

  • Ho KY, et al. (1988). Fasting enhances growth hormone secretion and amplifies the GH response to GHRH. J Clin Invest.

  • Veldhuis JD, et al. (2005). The aging somatotropic axis: effects on body composition and function. Endocrine Reviews.

Peptides Work With Your Body, Not Against It

Peptides like CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin don’t replace your hormones — they stimulate your own pituitary gland to release growth hormone in a natural, rhythmic way (just like your body did in youth).
This keeps your hormone system active and balanced, rather than shutting it down.

Safer Long-Term Option

Peptide therapy is safer for long-term use because it gently encourages your body to make its own growth hormone, instead of replacing it. In contrast, growth hormone injections can shut down your body’s natural production, raise IGF-1 levels too high, and may lead to side effects like water retention, joint pain, or insulin resistance. Since peptides work in short, natural bursts, they carry less risk while still helping with fat loss, better sleep, muscle tone, and recovery.

More Natural, More Physiologic

Peptide therapy mimics how GH is normally released in pulses, especially during deep sleep or fasting.
This helps improve sleep, metabolism, tissue repair, and overall well-being in a way that feels more natural and gradual — rather than forcing flat, artificial hormone levels.

Easier to Adjust and Monitor

With peptide therapy, we can adjust dosing gently based on how you feel, your goals, and your lab results (like IGF-1).
If you stop using peptides, your body continues making its own GH.


In contrast, long-term GH injections can make your body dependent on external hormone support.

Does Long-Term GH Use Shut Down Your Pituitary?

Yes, it can suppress your natural GH production — but usually not permanently.

When you inject recombinant GH (e.g., somatropin), your body senses that there’s already enough GH or IGF-1 in the blood, so the hypothalamus and pituitary reduce their own output. This is called negative feedback suppression.

If done long-term and without breaks, your pituitary can become “lazy” — meaning it stops releasing GH unless re-stimulated.

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in most people this is reversible with the right taper strategy and peptide therapy. If you plan to switch to peptides later, it’s better to avoid high GH doses and long continuous use without breaks.

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You can still switch to peptides after long-term use of growth hormone, but the success of the transition depends on several factors. The longer you've been using GH, the more likely it is that your pituitary gland has become suppressed due to reduced natural stimulation. Age and overall pituitary health also play a role — older individuals or those with weaker pituitary function may take longer to respond to peptides. Using high doses of GH increases the risk of deeper suppression, making reactivation more difficult. That’s why the best approach is a gradual taper off GH while overlapping with peptide therapy, which gives your pituitary time to “wake up” and begin functioning again. With careful management, most people can successfully transition and regain natural GH rhythm using peptides like CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin.

Q: I’ve been using growth hormone for a long time—how can I check if my pituitary can still produce GH naturally before switching to peptides?

The most accurate way to check your pituitary function is through a GH stimulation test. This test uses medications such as insulin, arginine, glucagon, or GHRH to "challenge" your pituitary gland and see if it can still release growth hormone on its own. If your pituitary responds well, it means it’s still functional and you’re very likely to benefit from peptide therapy like CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin. However, if there’s little or no response, it suggests that the gland may be too suppressed to reactivate easily, and peptides may not be effective—continued GH replacement may be needed. While the test is more complex and typically done in a clinic or hospital, it provides the clearest picture of whether your body can return to natural GH production after stopping injections.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions

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