Effects of low-dose growth hormone treatment on obesity: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Growth hormone (GH) reduces visceral adiposity, increases lean body mass, and improves the lipid profile in obese adults. However, high-dose GH regimens have been associated with frequent adverse effects. The efficacy and safety of low-dose GH treatment in obese individuals without GH deficiency remain unclear. This study aims to evaluate the effects of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) on body composition, lipid profile, glucose metabolism, and adverse events in this population.

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with the PRISMA statement. PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases were systematically searched up to December 2024. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving obese individuals without GH deficiency, with at least one endpoint related to body composition, lipid profile, or glucose metabolism. The study protocol was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO, #CRD42023464234).

A total of 10 RCTs involving 420 participants were included. The mean age of participants ranged from 18 to 65 years, and treatment durations varied from 4 to 72 weeks. Low-dose rhGH therapy resulted in a significant reduction in visceral adipose tissue (SMD: -0.34, 95%CI: -0.57 to -0.12, p = 0.003) and a significant increase in thigh muscle area (MD: 6.33 cm², 95%CI: 1.72 to 10.95, p = 0.007) compared to placebo. Additionally, fasting glucose levels were modestly elevated (MD: 4.18 mg/dL, 95%CI: 0.68 to 7.67, p = 0.02). No serious adverse events were reported in association with low-dose rhGH treatment across the included studies.

Low-dose rhGH therapy significantly reduces visceral fat and enhances thigh muscle mass in obese individuals without GH deficiency. These findings suggest that low-dose rhGH may offer therapeutic potential for sarcopenic obesity, warranting further investigation in larger, longer-term studies.