Healthy Skepticism Library item: 1625

Warning: This library includes all items relevant to health product marketing that we are aware of regardless of quality. Often we do not agree with all or part of the contents.

Publication type: Journal Article

Don't use growth hormone sold over web: Health Canada
CBC News 2005 Jun 7;

Full text:

Consumers should not use a product that claims to be a human growth hormone supplement called GHR-15, Health Canada warned Tuesday.

BIE Health Products (Canada) sells GHR-15 or GHR on the internet in capsule and powder form as a treatment for many diseases including cancer, diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and multiple sclerosis.

The health claims are unsubstantiated, said Health Canada, which has not approved it as a treatment for any of the diseases listed.

Since the hormone therapy has not been shown to work in oral form, people are unlikely to be helped by taking it, Health Canada said.

In fact, users may be at risk of developing hyperthyroidism and other possible interactions and allergic reactions, according to the department’s analysis of the product’s ingredients.

Hyperthyroidism can lead to symptoms including higher heart rate or blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms, too much sweating, nervousness and anxiety, among others.

No one has reported an adverse reaction to the product but the department said it has received complaints about the claims.

Health Canada advises people who’ve used the product to return it to the supplier. Anyone with concerns about taking the supplement should talk to their doctor.