METABOLIC EFFECTS OF HUMAN GROWTH HORMONE AND GROWTH HORMONE OF OTHER SPECIES IN MAN

Abstract

The metabolic effects of human growth hormone were investigated under varied clinical conditions in 15 balance studies on 10 subjects. Nitrogen retention occurred uniformly, the amount varying from 2 to 4 g daily. Potassium and phosphorus were likewise retained, but in over half the studies, in amounts greater than those calculated from the nitrogen retention. This suggested the deposition of parenchymal tissue rather than muscle tissue. Hypercalciuria and sodium chloride retention often accompanied the administration of human growth hormone. Growth hormone was effective in the hypothyroid subject. Neither increased nor decreased adrenal function altered the anabolic effect. Sheep and whale growth hormone were metabolically inactive in single trials. Nine studies with chymotrypsinized beef growth hormone likewise failed to indicate anabolic activity.