[Growth hormone: a magical potion?].
BACKGROUND
The various components of the growth hormone (GH)-insulin-like growth factor (IGF-I) axis and their binding proteins have many peripheral effects, mainly on bone, growth, activation of main cellular functions, energy metabolism and protein anabolism. They contribute to adapt an individual to circumstances of life and illness.


BACKGROUND
The unlimited supply of recombinant GH makes it possible to treat not only children with short stature but other disorders. In adults with GH deficiency, it has a marked effect on subjective well-being and body composition, and improves physical activity. GH may be promoted in new therapeutic areas such as severe hypercatabolic and denutrition states, dilated cardiomyopathy and several other more hypothetical areas. GH is not a wonder drug increasing physical performances in sport competitors or fighting against senescence.


CONCLUSIONS
GH is a new therapeutic tool. Its efficacy must be evaluated through double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials. Currently, only benefits on psychological and physical symptoms of GH deficiency in adults have been validated.
Service de médecine, CHRU, Hôpital de Hautepierre, Strasbourg, France.
J L
JL
Schlienger
B
B
Goichot
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000818:Animals; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D005356:Fibromyalgia / Q000188:drug therapy; D006130:Growth Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy; D019382:Human Growth Hormone / Q000172:deficiency / Q000502:physiology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D007247:Infertility, Female / Q000188:drug therapy; D007248:Infertility, Male / Q000188:drug therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010024:Osteoporosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D013177:Sports / Q000502:physiology
D019382:Human Growth Hormone
Hormone de croissance: potion magique?