Human growth hormone (HGH) is produced by the pituitary gland and stimulates body growth, bone lengthening in children, and muscle mass increase. It boosts protein synthesis, cell repair, and fat breakdown, and prompts the liver to release IGF‑1, which mediates many growth effects. HGH also helps regulate metabolism, bone density, and body composition; levels decline with age, affecting muscle and fat distribution.

In India, human growth hormone (recombinant somatropin) is legal only as a prescription medicine for approved medical conditions (e.g., growth hormone deficiency, certain genetic disorders). Use, sale, or import without a valid prescription or for non‑medical purposes (anti‑aging, bodybuilding) is unauthorized and can attract regulatory action under drug laws. Obtain and use HGH only under specialist medical supervision.

Bodybuilders use growth hormone to increase lean mass and reduce body fat, enhance recovery and tissue repair, and potentially boost strength and appearance. GH promotes protein synthesis, lipolysis, and connective-tissue growth, so users seek faster healing and fuller muscles. Evidence for performance benefits is mixed, and side effects (edema, joint pain, insulin resistance, heart issues) plus legal and medical risks make unsupervised use unsafe.

An 18‑year‑old should only take human growth hormone (HGH) if diagnosed with a medical indication (e.g., growth‑hormone deficiency) and prescribed by an endocrinologist after testing. HGH is not recommended for healthy teens for performance or anti‑aging; it carries risks (fluid retention, joint pain, insulin resistance, raised intracranial pressure) and is illegal without prescription. It won’t increase height if growth plates have closed. Consult a doctor.

Daily human growth hormone injections are safe only when prescribed and closely monitored for approved medical conditions. In healthy adults, routine use or high doses can cause fluid retention, joint and muscle pain, insulin resistance or diabetes, carpal tunnel, and increased cancer risk; long-term safety is uncertain. Always use under specialist supervision with regular testing to minimize harm.

Lionel Messi did receive medically prescribed growth hormone as a child to treat a diagnosed growth-hormone deficiency; FC Barcelona later helped fund the treatment. There is no credible evidence he used HGH as a performance-enhancing drug during his professional career, and he has never tested positive or been sanctioned for HGH doping.