- Evidence-informed diagnosis
- Testing when indicated
- Individual prescription
- Safety monitoring
What to know before treatment
Growth hormone therapy is not routinely recommended to reverse normal aging.
- Confirmed deficiency
- A relevant diagnosis and appropriate clinical testing are required.
- Testing
- IGF-1 and, when indicated, stimulation tests may help; one random GH result is insufficient.
- Prescription
- Medication type, dose and timeframe depend on the individual indication.
- Monitoring
- Follow-up includes clinical response, IGF-1 and treatment safety.
What is Growth Hormone Therapy?
Prescription recombinant human growth hormone may be used for adults with clinically confirmed growth hormone deficiency. Potential causes include pituitary or hypothalamic disorders, surgery or radiation, head trauma and certain childhood-onset conditions.
Age-related changes alone do not establish deficiency. A random growth hormone measurement is generally insufficient; a clinical evaluation, IGF-1 and, when indicated, stimulation testing help determine whether treatment has a role.
Why choose Age Metrics Medical?
Recommendations are based on diagnosis and the individual health picture, not routine anti-aging claims. If prescribed, the treatment plan specifies medication, dose and timeframe, with follow-up and laboratory monitoring for response and safety.
Who may benefit from an evaluation?
These findings can have other explanations and do not alone establish deficiency.
- Body composition changes or increased abdominal fat
- Reduced muscle mass or strength
- Decreased bone density
- Persistent changes in energy or function
- Quality-of-life changes with findings suggesting deficiency
- Laboratory findings requiring further assessment
- Pituitary or hypothalamic medical history
What to expect
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Consultation
Review history, symptoms, medications, lifestyle and goals.
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Diagnostic assessment
IGF-1 and other tests, including stimulation testing when appropriate, help establish the diagnosis.
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Treatment discussion
If indicated, review injectable medication, dose, timeframe, benefits and risks.
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Ongoing monitoring
Reassess response, IGF-1 and safety, adjusting treatment when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does growth hormone naturally decline with age?
Production can change with age, but this alone does not mean an adult has growth hormone deficiency.
How is adult deficiency diagnosed?
Diagnosis combines history and appropriate testing; stimulation testing may be needed. A random GH measurement alone is usually insufficient.
Is growth hormone therapy an anti-aging treatment?
It is primarily for confirmed deficiency and is not routinely recommended for otherwise healthy adults seeking to reverse normal aging.
How is treatment administered?
Prescription growth hormone is injected. The schedule depends on the formulation and clinical plan.
How is treatment monitored?
Follow-up evaluates symptoms, IGF-1, response and potential safety concerns.
International patients
Why patients choose Costa Rica for their care
International patients may find individualized hormone care in Costa Rica at a lower cost, depending on the treatment plan. Physician supervision and clear follow-up remain essential wherever treatment is delivered.
Related services and treatments
Clinical References
- 01 Endocrine Society. Evaluation and Treatment of Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency (2011). The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism
- 02 Yuen KCJ et al. Guidelines for Management of Growth Hormone Deficiency in Adults (2019). Endocrine Practice
Schedule Your Consultation
Discuss whether further evaluation for growth hormone deficiency is appropriate before considering any prescription therapy.