Side Effects of HGH Therapy in Men

For most men who receive HGH injection therapy, the risk of adverse reactions is extremely rare. Numerous studies have proven the safety of prescribed human growth hormone treatment for adults. That does not mean there are no side effects of HGH therapy in men – every medication, prescription or over-the-counter, carries risks. Below, we examine the potential common, short-term, rare, and long-term adverse HGH effects on men. We also look at what can happen to those individuals who abuse HGH for illegal purposes.

Because HGH is an injectable medication, the most likely of all human growth hormone side effects in men is injection site reactions. These issues can include:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Itching
• Pain
• Irritation

Injection site reactions such as these resolve themselves in a short time. For most men, these issues rapidly clear up as they become better adept at administering the shot.

Common Short-Term Adverse Effects of HGH

Upon onset of HGH administration, the body begins to undergo changes as it becomes accustomed to higher levels of human growth hormone in the bloodstream. That is why some people may experience early, short-term side effects of HGH therapy. These reactions tend to clear up within a few weeks as the body acclimates to the increased HGH levels.

The most common, short-term side effects of HGH therapy in men include:

• Nerve, muscle, and joint pain
• Edema
• Insulin resistance
• Headaches
• Cold-like symptoms
• Gynecomastia

If any of these reactions occur, it is not necessary to worry and call the doctor right away. Medical intervention is only required if the symptoms worsen or persist for more than two weeks. In that scenario, the doctor may lower the dosage until the reactions disappear, followed by a gradual increase in the dosage. Of course, never hesitate to contact our clinic with any questions or concerns.

Dangerous Rare Side Effects

Ignoring short-term side effects of HGH therapy in men is never recommended. It is important to pay attention to changes in the body, because if they do not go away, the following, more dangerous reactions could occur:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• High cholesterol
• Type 2 diabetes
• Cancer

HGH does not cause cancer. However, if cancer is present, it could lead to cancerous cell reproduction. That is why a qualified hormone specialist should always prescribe and oversee HGH therapy in men as cancer is also a contraindication for treatment. Lowering the HGH dosage can often reverse the first three issues above.

Effects of Abuse and Inappropriate HGH Application in Males

The most likely cause of side effects of HGH therapy in men is illegal use, abuse, or misuse. Some men use HGH injections for athletic/sports enhancement or bodybuilding. Injecting high doses of HGH can result in the following:

• Dentition problems
• Excessive sweating
• Acromegaly
• Hypertension
• Diabetes
• Arthralgia
• Cancer
• Impotence
• Cardiomyopathy

Stopping illegal or unauthorized HGH use can help reduce or reverse those concerns.

Some Questions of Concern to Our Patients

Can HGH Therapy Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is not one of the more common side effects of HGH therapy in men. Most men experience an improvement in sexual functions. However, the abuse of HGH can lead to problems with erectile performance. That is why men must be under a hormone specialist’s care when using HGH.

Can Human Growth Hormone Therapy Cause Male Infertility?

As with erectile dysfunction, human growth hormone therapy often improves male fertility. Again, too much of a good thing can be bad, as HGH excess can lead to infertility.

Can HGH Lead to Kidney Problems in Men?

HGH use is not typically associated with kidney problems. However, some people with chronic kidney disease may suffer from growth hormone deficiency and can benefit from HGH therapy. Again, abuse of HGH can lead to many problems in the body.

Can HGH Cause Prostate Cancer?

Extremely high levels of HGH could increase the risk of prostate cancer. These levels would be significantly higher than what doctors prescribe to treat growth hormone deficiency.

Please contact our hormone clinic for a free consultation to learn more about the side effects of HGH therapy in men.