Human Growth Hormone (HGH) is produced by the pituitary gland and plays a critical role in growth, body composition, metabolism, and recovery throughout your entire life. In adults, HGH regulates muscle mass, fat distribution, bone density, energy levels, and cardiovascular function.
Important note on HGH testing: HGH is released in pulses and fluctuates significantly throughout the day, meaning a single random blood draw may not reflect your true growth hormone status. For a more stable assessment of growth hormone activity, the IGF-1 test is often preferred alongside this test — it remains stable in the blood and serves as a reliable proxy for overall GH production.
When the HGH test is ordered:
- Investigating growth hormone deficiency in adults — fatigue, muscle loss, increased body fat
- Evaluating possible excess growth hormone (acromegaly)
- Pituitary function evaluation
- Baseline evaluation before HGH replacement therapy
- Anti-aging and longevity optimization panels
Normal HGH reference ranges (Labcorp):
- Adult men: 0.01–0.97 ng/mL
- Adult women: 0.01–3.61 ng/mL
Physician order included. No insurance or referral required. HSA and FSA eligible. Results in 24–48 hours.
Use:
This test evaluates pituitary function and monitors the effectiveness of treatment for excess production of growth hormone (GH). It also helps diagnose GH deficiency or growth hormone excess.
Insufficient GH production is related to decreased bone density and/or muscle strength and elevated blood lipid levels. GH excess causes two rare conditions called gigantism and acromegaly.
Recommended For:
Those taking a growth hormone or testosterone supplements When a pituitary disorder is suspected and other pituitary hormone levels are abnormal.
Special Notes:
Fasting is required 12 hours prior to giving blood sample. Patients must also rest thirty (30) minutes prior to giving sample.
Tests Included:
Estimated Turn Around For Results:
2-10 Business Days
For an exact turnaround time for results, please contact us at Personalabs and we will contact the lab on your behalf as turnaround times vary depending on testing location or lab testing provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the human growth hormone blood test measure? The HGH blood test measures the amount of human growth hormone (somatotropin) circulating in your blood at the time of the draw. HGH is produced by the pituitary gland and regulates growth, metabolism, muscle mass, fat distribution, and recovery in adults.
Why is HGH testing unreliable with a single blood draw? HGH is released in pulses throughout the day and night, with levels fluctuating significantly hour to hour. A single random blood draw may catch a natural peak or trough, making interpretation difficult. For this reason, IGF-1 testing — which reflects stable, average growth hormone activity over time — is often ordered alongside or instead of a random HGH draw.
What does low HGH mean in adults? Low HGH in adults may indicate growth hormone deficiency (GHD), which can cause fatigue, reduced muscle mass, increased body fat, poor sleep, decreased bone density, and reduced quality of life. GHD is more common than many people realize and often goes undiagnosed.
What does high HGH mean? Elevated HGH may indicate excess growth hormone production, sometimes associated with a pituitary adenoma (acromegaly). If your result is significantly above the reference range, follow-up evaluation with a physician is recommended.
Do I need a prescription to order this test? No. Personalabs provides a physician-approved lab order with every purchase. No prescription, referral, or insurance needed. Results delivered to your private account in days.
