Secretagogues And Their Relation To Athletic Enhancement Via Hgh
What is a secretagogue and how does it relate to athletic performance? A secretagogue is a substance which causes another substance to be secreted. Simple right?
With regards to athletic performance, and specifically hgh, (human growth hormone,) a secretogue is any substance that causes the anterior pituitary to release more natural growth hormone in the body. It is widely known that human growth hormone promotes superior athletic performance in people of all ages.
Pharma companies have invested years of research into developing a supplement or pill to replace the need for synthetically derived hgh injections. So far they have come up with three possibilities. Geref, MK0577, and GHRP 6.
Obtaining these Secretagogues
Currently, MK0577 and GHRP 6 are still in the research stage and not approved for use by the FDA.
Only Geref from Serno Laboratories has FDA approval as a prescription for treatment of idiopathic growth hormone deficiency in children with growth deficiency. The main issue surrounding Geraf is that it is administered through injection, just like actual synthetic hgh and in addition, costs more. Why would an athlete pay more to inject himself with a secretagogue when he could purchase actual growth hormone cheaper?
Another problem is that Serono has announced that Geref Diagnostic (sermorelin acetate for injection) will no longer be available beginning October 2008 because the active ingredient is no longer being manufactured.
What is a Good Alternative?
There really is not one. There are hgh supplements available all over the internet and at health food stores. These supplements make use of various amino acids, herbs and vitamins that separately or in combination stimulate the body to produce more growth hormone naturally. In some cases they work as precursors by causing the body to create chemicals that cause hgh release. The problem is, most DO NOT work well and are nothing more than herbs that are eliminated by the body. Long story short, don’t waste your money on hgh releasers in sprays or pills.
The best advice is to wait until the FDA approves a secretagogue for use and then convince your doctor to prescribe it for your situation. Whatever you do, always consult your physician before starting any supplement routine or injection.
There is also the idea of stacking FDA approved supplements such as creatine and protein. These supplements have been on the market for many years and are proven to increase athletic performance with minimal side effects. Always remember, generally increasing your exercise routine will help to increase growth hormone naturally over time. The key is consistency and patience.