Thinking about starting HGH — should I?

An IGF‑1 of 105 ng/mL on its own doesn’t tell the whole story — it’s just one data point. Low‑normal IGF‑1 doesn’t automatically equal GH deficiency. Before even thinking about GH I’d ask about sleep quality, calorie intake, body fat percentage, thyroid tests (especially free T3), and any recent weight loss. You’re on retatrutide trying to lose 20 lb; being in a calorie deficit can lower IGF‑1, so I’d be hesitant to blame GH while you’re actively losing. If symptoms persist after you reach your target weight and other labs look good, see an endocrinologist about further testing. One IGF‑1 result of 105 isn’t enough to decide on HGH.

Sleep is hit or miss — some nights fine, some nights I wake up. I’m on keto/carnivore and before Reta I was eating about 2,500 kcal, which is maintenance for me. A healthy weight for me is 185, so I do need to lose weight. That’s why I’m hoping Reta might help, since I probably have visceral fat causing issues. Thyroid and other markers are within range. I started Reta 4 weeks ago and it kicked in around week 2. My symptoms have been bad for about three years; I’ve tried supplements and natural strategies, hence keto/carnivore. Before that my total T was 179, now it’s near 500 but symptoms persist. Because of poor sleep, fatigue, and loss of muscle density I thought HGH might help. I also get a fluttering feeling in my forehead around the pituitary/pineal area.

To echo earlier points, the fact your T went from 179 to ~500 without symptom improvement makes me question whether T or GH is the main issue. Being on keto/carnivore, actively losing weight with retatrutide, and having poor sleep all affect energy, recovery, and IGF‑1. An IGF‑1 of 105 alone doesn’t diagnose adult GH deficiency. If symptoms continue after you reach your goal weight and sleep is fixed, I’d have an endocrinologist consider dynamic GH stimulation testing rather than assuming you need HGH. The “fluttering” is the part I’d be most worried about — don’t just assume it’s from low T or GH. See a specialist (endocrinologist or neurologist) pronto and they may order pituitary imaging (MRI with contrast) if indicated. That symptom shouldn’t be ignored.

My symptoms go back three years, before I started keto/carnivore or Reta. I tried all the natural approaches first — that’s why I came here. All my labs look fine, so I’m baffled.

Exactly — it’s not that straightforward. A specific IGF value doesn’t automatically mean you need growth hormone; there are many reasons it could be low. Whether to take GH is a personal choice — nobody can definitively say you “should.”

That’s why I’d push for a deeper workup instead of assuming GH is the fix. Your testosterone improved a lot without symptom relief, so something else is likely driving this. If you’ve really exhausted lifestyle changes and routine labs are normal, have an endocrinologist evaluate you for adult GH deficiency with a dynamic GH stimulation test rather than relying on IGF‑1 alone. Given the persistent fluttering, I’d also want them to decide if pituitary imaging (MRI with contrast) is appropriate. Without your full history that’s my gut — at this point look for a diagnosis instead of just trying another hormone.

Oh — I’d never heard of a “dynamic GH stimulation test” before. I’ll definitely look that up. Thanks.

Try adding carbs back into your diet. I wouldn’t start any new compounds until you address that fluttering sensation — might even stop everything until it’s sorted. You probably don’t need to be on Reta.

I did try — rice was always my favorite. Didn’t help:(

If you want to try GH, then go ahead. If you don’t, don’t.

I ran 4 IU of HGH daily for over a year. You don’t need a lot to feel benefits. It’s been a great add to my routine and improved quality of life — aside from steroids changing your look, HGH helped my physique and daily well‑being. Big fan.

Ignore the armchair docs — hell yes try HGH. Speaking as another guy over 50, it was a long‑term game changer for me. Small doses go a long way. Of course make sure you’re healthy first. It pairs very well with retatrutide and moderate test. Ditch the sermorelin and use the real stuff.

I agree. The recovery and overall feeling make it worth it for me. Been on it about three years straight.

Start some GH. I’d begin at 2.5 IU/day and see how you feel. If comfortable, move up to about 3.33 IU/day. It’ll feel like your first time on test.

Get your health checked first. Fluttering in the forehead near the pituitary? That’s concerning — make sure you aren’t having something serious. Once you get that evaluated, ditch the strict keto/carnivore and eat normally — clean diet with fruits, veggies, fiber, carbs and meat. Keep protein high but eat like a regular person. Consider exogenous testosterone at 150 mg/week to start and adjust from there — 500 total sure seems low to me (I do best between 1500–2000). Maybe you need more T. If you try HGH, start at 2 IU. Keep the Reta. Good luck.

I won’t debate GH/Test since others have already. But telling someone to take 3.33 IU is dumb. Also be careful doing keto while on any GLP — read up on why it’s usually discouraged. I could write a long list, but you’ll learn more if you research it yourself.

Yes.

Fatigue could be from the retatrutide. GLP users often get tired because appetite drops and protein intake falls, plus electrolytes can be off. I take a morning electrolyte mix and a liquid multivitamin since it’s easier on Reta, and I had to increase protein. Small diet adjustments while on Reta could help — electrolytes also ease muscle fatigue and cramps.

Following. Tried GH a few years back and got injection site lumps. I’m almost 48 and thinking about trying again at some point. Good info below, thanks.