Can Excess GH and IGF-1 Cause Hypertension?
Written by Robbie Durand
13 May 2008
Hypertension affects approximately one
third of patients with acromegaly (High GH and IGF-1). Of the multiple
mechanisms of GH/IGF-I induced-hypertension the most reliable are a GH-induced
expansion of plasma volume by a sodium retaining effect on the kidney and
IGF-I-determined fluid retention by inhibiting atrial natriuretic peptide- induced
natriuresis. Researchers from Italy
investigated the effects of GH lowering drugs on patients with uncontrolled
acromegaly and its relation to blood pressure.
After lowering supraphysiological GH levels, the most striking result is
that control of GH and IGF-I excess in hypertensive patients with acromegaly is
associated with a better control of hypertension. This was also associated with
a significant improvement of cardiomyopathy and reduced prevalence of diastolic
and systolic dysfunction. Bodybuilders using GH and IGF-1 should monitor their
blood pressure.
Colao A, Terzolo M, Bondanelli M, Galderisi M, Vitale G,
Reimondo G, Ambrosio MR, Pivonello R, Lombardi G,
Angeli A, Degli Uberti EC. GH and IGF-I excess control
contributes to blood pressure control: results of an
observational, retrospective, multicentre study in
105 hypertensive acromegalic patients on hypertensive
treatment. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf). 2008