Human Growth Hormone (HGH) vs Alpha-Defensin
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Human Growth Hormone (HGH)
Human Growth Hormone (somatropin) is a 191-amino acid protein identical to naturally produced GH. FDA-approved for growth hormone deficiency, Turner syndrome, and other conditions. Widely used off-label for anti-aging and performance.
Full details →Alpha-Defensin
Alpha-defensins are small cationic peptides that are key components of the innate immune system. They have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Human Growth Hormone (HGH) | Alpha-Defensin |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Binds to GH receptors throughout the body, stimulating IGF-1 production in the liver. Promotes protein synthesis, fat metabolism, and cellular regeneration across multiple tissues. | Insert into microbial membranes to form pores, leading to cell death. Also have immunomodulatory effects including chemotaxis of immune cells and cytokine modulation. |
| Typical Dosage | Medical: 0.1-0.3mg/kg/week divided into daily doses. Anti-aging: 1-2 IU daily. Performance: 2-6 IU daily, sometimes higher. | Research compound - dosing varies by application. Typically studied in laboratory and early clinical research settings rather than for general use. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, preferably at night to mimic natural pulsatile release. Rotate injection sites. Store refrigerated. | Various routes studied including topical, local injection, and systemic administration depending on application. |
| Side Effects | Joint pain, water retention, carpal tunnel syndrome, potential insulin resistance, and acromegaly features with long-term high doses. | Limited human use data. May cause local inflammation. Potential for immune activation effects. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both Human Growth Hormone (HGH) and Alpha-Defensin are commonly used for: