GH and Bone Health

Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency (AGHD) causes osteoporosis, which increases one’s risk for various fractures and low bone mass. [383-390] In order to preserve bone mass and decrease the prevalence of fractures especially in the older population, GH supplementation may be considered as a therapeutic option. In one study, Giustina et al. reported that GH replacement may help reverse bone abnormalities by increasing markers of bone formation and bone resorption [391] (process by which osteoclasts break down bone and release minerals, resulting in a transfer of calcium from bone fluid to the blood). In another study, Gillberg et al. found that two years of treatment with recombinant human growth hormone increased bone mineral density in men with osteoporosis of unknown cause. [392] In a meta-analysis of several clinical trials assessing the therapeutic benefits of GH, Barake et al. found that GH treatment resulted in significant increase in osteocalcin (a cell that helps build bones) and in bone resorption markers. [393] Moreover, patients who received GH had a significant decrease in fracture risk. In patients with GHD, Wuster et al. found that GH treatment significantly increased bone metabolism and improved bone geometry. [394]