Are Growth Hormones Effective After Growth Plate Closure?

Are growth hormones effective?

If I am in my senior year of high school and my growth plates have fused, will growth hormone injections still be effective? If so, how many more centimeters can I grow?

Mile, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/26

Dr. Li Wenhong reply Orthopedics

Hello! Once the growth plates have fused, growth hormone injections will not lead to further height increase.
Please do not misuse growth hormones.
If you have any concerns, please visit the pediatric metabolism or endocrinology clinic for evaluation.
Changhua Hospital, Orthopedics, Dr.
Li Wen-Hong.

Reply Date: 2015/10/26

More Info

The effectiveness of growth hormones after the closure of growth plates is a complex topic that requires an understanding of human growth and development. Growth plates, also known as epiphyseal plates, are areas of developing cartilage tissue located at the ends of long bones. These plates are responsible for the longitudinal growth of bones during childhood and adolescence. Once an individual reaches the end of puberty, sex hormones such as estrogen and testosterone lead to the maturation and eventual closure of these growth plates.
When growth plates close, which typically occurs around ages 18-25 for most individuals, the potential for further height increase is significantly diminished. This is because the closure of growth plates signifies that the cartilage has been replaced by bone, and no further elongation of the bone can occur. Therefore, once the growth plates are fused, the administration of growth hormones, such as human growth hormone (HGH), is unlikely to result in any significant increase in height.

In your case, as a high school senior, if your growth plates have already closed, taking growth hormone injections will not likely yield any additional height. While growth hormones can stimulate growth in children and adolescents who have not yet reached skeletal maturity, their effectiveness diminishes significantly after growth plate closure.
It is also important to consider the potential side effects and risks associated with growth hormone therapy. These can include joint pain, insulin resistance, and other metabolic changes. Furthermore, the use of growth hormones for height enhancement in individuals with closed growth plates is not typically recommended or supported by medical guidelines.

If you are concerned about your height or are considering any interventions, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or an endocrinologist. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation, including your growth history, family height patterns, and overall health.
In summary, once growth plates are closed, the likelihood of increasing height through growth hormone therapy is very low. Instead, focusing on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, is essential for overall well-being. While it may be disappointing to learn that further height increase is unlikely, embracing your current height and focusing on other aspects of personal development can be more beneficial in the long run.

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