Hormone Replacement Therapy For Men

Testosterone or HGH: Which is better?

Testosterone and human growth hormone are both anabolic hormone whose uses overlap. However, apart from that they are quite different in structure, source, effects and even side-effects.

Testosterone is a steroid produced in the testes of males and the ovaries of females while human growth hormone (HGH) is a protein-based polypeptide hormone secreted in the pituitary gland at the base of the brain.

Comparing the effect of both hormones on the body: while testosterone works by helping libido, providing mental and physical energy and maintenance of muscle tone, HGH’s effects are very specific and comprehensive. HGH strengthens the bones, increase muscle mass, promote fat breakdown, increase protein production, make glucose available and so provide energy, stimulate growth of the organs and also the immune system.

From these effects, the benefits from testosterone therapy are the reduction of the risks of developing osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes and obesity. On the other hand, HGH has targeted uses. It is used to address not only deficiencies in human growth hormone but also shortness not caused by its deficiency. In replacement therapies, HGH builds and strengthens lean muscles; enhance weight loss in the obese, help with heart failure and specifically reverse the effects of aging.

So while testosterone depends on cumulative improvements that could be achieve by building muscle mass and providing a store of energy, HGH actively rejuvenates the body. Also large scale trials to access the efficacy and long-term safety of testosterone are lacking. HGH on the other hand has been extensively studied.

To further underline this, it is noteworthy that there is no agreed threshold at which it is indicated to start aging men on testosterone replacement therapy. This is because the signs of low testosterone levels are non-specific and easily confused with signs of normal aging. For women, there are no standards regarding when to commence treatment. HGH on the other hand has such standards and it is easier to know when to start hormone replacement therapy.

Regarding side-effects, HGH can present with joint pains and a risk of developing diabetes. Testosterone, however, can make men ‘grow breasts’ (gynecomastia) or make urinating difficult.

So which of testosterone or HGH is better? Well, the question is which do you need? For hormone replacement therapy you can combine both to use less of each and gain from the overlapping benefits of both hormones.

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