Human growth hormone (HGH) is a hormone produced naturally by the pituitary gland. It plays a crucial role in growth, cell regeneration and metabolism. As we age, HGH levels decline, leading some to take synthetic HGH supplements in hopes of slowing aging effects. However, the legality of taking HGH is complex.
In California, it is illegal to possess or distribute HGH without a valid prescription. Under the federal Anabolic Steroids Control Act of 1990, HGH is classified as a Schedule III substance due to its potential for abuse. Simple possession carries up to 1 year in prison and a minimum $1,000 fine. Trafficking penalties are significantly higher.
However, a doctor may legally prescribe synthetic HGH for specific medical conditions in adults and children, including:
- Growth hormone deficiency
- Muscle wasting disease associated with HIV/AIDS
- Short bowel syndrome
- Cachexia (muscle wasting) in cancer patients
California law aligns with federal law on restrictions around prescribing HGH.
Only licensed physicians may prescribe it,
for FDA-approved uses.
The most common reason adults pursue HGH treatment is
to attempt reversing effects of aging, despite
a lack of evidence that it provides anti-aging benefits or can reverse aging. Using HGH for anti-aging or athletic enhancement is illegal. Despite this, some
anti-aging clinics promote or illegally distribute HGH to adults claiming it can make them look and feel decades younger, without warning of legal risks.
At
Balance Hormone Center, we specialize in customized
hormone replacement therapy (HRT) using *
bioidentical hormones - not synthetic HGH - to restore optimal hormone levels. If clinically deficient in key hormones like
testosterone,
estrogen or thyroid, HRT can help relieve symptoms like low energy, poor sleep and reduced sex drive. Our board-certified providers follow strict safety protocols and never prescribe for anti-aging.
To summarize key points:
- Taking or distributing HGH without a valid medical prescription is illegal
- In California, doctors may legally prescribe it for specific medical conditions
- Prescribing for anti-aging or enhancement purposes is illegal
- Balance Hormone Center provides customized HRT to restore hormones using bioidentical hormones, never synthetic HGH
I aimed to provide an overview of the legal issues around HGH in California, key medical uses, and dangers of clinics promoting it illegally for anti-aging. I cannot advise on obtaining HGH illegally or provide medical advice. For questions on legally increasing hormones as part of customized treatment for symptoms, consult a licensed medical provider at a reputable clinic.