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Evidence for a decrease in cardiovascular risk factors following recombinant growth hormone administration in
Michael R Graham1, Julien S Baker, Peter Evans
1Health and Exercise Science Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sport and Science, University of Glamorgan, Pontypridd, Wales, United Kingdom. drgraham@glam.ac.uk
Summary
Short-term recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) use in abstinent anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) users improved body composition and inflammatory markers but increased resting heart rate and rate pressure product, suggesting potential cardiovascular risks.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Sports Medicine
- Cardiovascular Physiology
Background:
- Anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) users often exhibit cardiovascular risks.
- Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) has potential therapeutic applications.
- The cardiovascular and biochemical effects of rhGH in abstinent AAS users require investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the cardiovascular and biochemical effects of short-term rhGH administration.
- To compare these effects in abstinent AAS users versus a control group.
Main Methods:
- Forty-eight male subjects were randomized into control and rhGH groups.
- rhGH group received 0.058 IU/kg/day for six days.
- Measurements included anthropometry, arterial pulse wave velocity, blood pressure, heart rate, VO2 peak, and biochemical markers.
Main Results:
- rhGH increased BMI, fat-free mass index, and VO2 peak, while decreasing body fat.
- Insulin-like growth factor-I increased, while serum homocysteine, hs-CRP, TSH, and T4 decreased.
- Arterial pulse wave velocity and blood pressure decreased, but resting heart rate and RPP increased.
Conclusions:
- Short-term rhGH may benefit endothelial function and inflammatory markers in abstinent AAS users.
- Potential adverse cardiovascular effects, indicated by increased resting RPP, warrant caution.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the long-term implications.
