Despite criticism, use of human growth hormone as anti-aging regimen persists
9:51 a.m. Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Like so many approaching retirement age, Ed and Beth Lothamer were starting to feel less energetic than they once did, until Beth decided to try a controversial and increasingly popular treatment: human growth hormone.
"And then she kept telling me how good she was feeling. and I was getting a little sluggish. But she said, 'why don't you at least come and take a shot at this,'" Ed said.
So now they each take a shot, every day. Ed said he felt the effects within a month.
"When I woke up I wasn't fatigued," he said. "I noticed in the gym that I was much stronger. I had more endurance. My memory was sharper. "
On the internet, you'll find countless pitches for human growth hormone.
But not everyone shares the enthusiasm. Dr. Thomas Perls is an outspoken critic.
"No one sends me any scientific articles showing that growth hormone works to combat aging, simply because they don't exist," Perls said.
But, multiple studies have found that growth hormone reduces fat while building up bones and muscle. But those studies also find a lot of side effects, like joint pain and swelling. And to Perls, that's not the worst of it.
"It shortens life span, and it probably increases people's risk for cancer," Perls said.
He says the risk is just too big to take. But to others, the gamble is worth it.
"You know, I'm sure it's not for everybody in the world," Ed said. "For us, we think it works and so we do it. "
Taking growth hormones specifically for anti-aging is illegal. So doctors who prescribe it have to show they're treating a deficiency. Distributing it without a prescription, can get you five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
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