Replacing GH in the body is generally the best treatment for GHD in both adults and children. Getting a daily shot is the usual way to replace the GH that is not produced in proper amounts. A doctor must fully examine patients before they begin GH treatment.

The treatment itself requires that a small amount of hormone be injected into the fat beneath a patient's skin once a day. This is fairly simple because of the small volume of GH needed and the narrow needles that are used.

For children:
Children tend to grow at a faster rate during their first year of GH treatment and continue to respond after that at a growth rate that is faster than normal while they receive hormone treatment. GH affects both bones and muscles and lowers the amount of body fat. Many children lose weight and trim body fat with GH treatment, even as they grow taller.

Endocrinologists are carefully evaluating the potential of growth hormone therapy for children who are extremely short, but who do not have measurable GH deficiency. Only a specialist in pediatric endocrinology should conduct this type of therapy.

For adults:
Often children who had GH therapy during childhood can produce enough GH to control the metabolic effects of GH in adulthood. They need to be tested to learn whether they need to continue taking the hormone. Tests may show that they no longer need GH therapy as adults.

Other adults may benefit from taking GH. These adults will not grow taller, but they generally will lose weight and body fat while taking GH. If you are taking GH as an adult, you may see your muscle mass increase, even as you lose fat and weight. GH also can improve your exercise performance and ability to use oxygen. Your "good" cholesterol may rise, which is helpful, while your "bad" cholesterol may be reduced.

One of the biggest effects is that your mood or emotions probably will improve. You may feel like you have more energy.

Other Treatments:
Some adults find their lives are much better after taking GH alone. Others may find they still need some help, particularly with the psychological symptoms of GHD.

You may need medication to control anxiety or lift your mood. You may find counseling helpful, too. Some forms of therapy, such as cognitive-behavior therapy, can help you correct negative thoughts you may be having. You may want to join a support group with other adults who have GHD.