Peptide library / Hormones & metabolism / Somatropin
Somatropin
Recombinant human growth hormone, a 191 amino acid protein used for growth failure and deficiency.
Effects studied or claimed
What it is used or promoted for, and where each effect has actually been seen
- Growth failure in childrenFDA approved
- Adult growth hormone deficiencyFDA approved
- Anti-aging use, promotedSmall human studies
How it is thought to work
Growth hormone stimulates the liver to make IGF-1, which drives growth in children and affects body composition and metabolism in adults.
What the evidence shows
Replacing growth hormone in deficient adults improves lean mass and reduces fat. In healthy older adults, trials showed more fluid retention and joint symptoms than meaningful benefit.
Safety and unknowns
Fluid retention, joint pain and insulin resistance are common. Misuse for anti-aging is not supported by the evidence.
Regulatory status
FDA-approved since 1985 for specific conditions. Off-label use for anti-aging is not permitted.
Regulatory status changes quickly. This entry was last reviewed on 27 October 2026. Confirm current status with the FDA before relying on it.
More in Hormones & metabolism
Tesamorelin
FDA-approvedA growth hormone-releasing hormone analog approved to reduce belly fat in people with HIV.
Triptorelin
FDA-approvedA GnRH agonist used for prostate cancer and central precocious puberty.
Somatrogon
FDA-approvedA weekly long-acting growth hormone for children.
General information, not medical advice. Do not buy or inject unregulated peptides.