Hormone  Abuse

Human growth hormone (hGH) plays a crucial role in the development and health of both children and adults.  Produced by the pituitary gland, and regulated by the hypothalamus, growth hormone prompts the increase in linear height, muscle development, and bone growth, and affects psychological well-being.  Growth hormone imbalances can lead to many serious conditions.

Growth hormone and steroids are often legitimately used by physicians to treat hormone deficiencies.  When hormones are used illegally, however, serious side effects can result.

Growth hormone and anabolic steroids are used by some athletes, both adult and adolescent, to increase performance and enhance muscle growth and appearance.  HGH abuse and anabolic steroid abuse can cause serious physical and psychological side effects, including liver abnormalities, aggressive behavior, blood clots, paranoia, hallucinations, and psychosis.  The effects of continued hGH and anabolic steroid abuse could be irreversible.

Learn moreabout hGH abuse and the abuse of anabolic steroids in The Hormone Foundation's fact sheets.

Fact Sheets

Anabolic Steroids and Young Adults

Growth Hormone: Use and Abuse

Supplements, Steroid Precursors and Adolescent Health