Human Growth Hormone (HGH) vs LL-37 (Cathelicidin)
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 →LL-37 (Cathelicidin)
LL-37 is the only human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide. It plays crucial roles in innate immunity and has shown diverse biological activities including antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and wound healing properties.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Human Growth Hormone (HGH) | LL-37 (Cathelicidin) |
|---|---|---|
| Dose Range | 200 mcg–2 mg | 500 mcg–1.6 mg |
| Frequency | 1x daily | 1x daily |
| Cycle Length | 12–24 weeks | 2–4 weeks |
| Route | subcutaneous | topical |
| 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. | Disrupts bacterial membranes, neutralizes endotoxins, modulates immune cell function, and promotes wound healing. Has both direct antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects. |
| 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 protocols vary widely. Typical ranges: 50-200mcg administered subcutaneously 2-3 times weekly. Some protocols use higher doses for acute infections. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, preferably at night to mimic natural pulsatile release. Rotate injection sites. Store refrigerated. | Subcutaneous injection. Can cause significant injection site reactions. Often used in conjunction with other immune-supporting protocols. |
| Side Effects | Joint pain, water retention, carpal tunnel syndrome, potential insulin resistance, and acromegaly features with long-term high doses. | Injection site pain and reactions are common. May cause flu-like symptoms, temporary fatigue, or immune activation responses. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Human Growth Hormone (HGH), LL-37 (Cathelicidin) are both commonly used for:
Key Differences
Unique to Human Growth Hormone (HGH):
Which Has Stronger Evidence?
- Recovery & Healing: Human Growth Hormone (HGH) has stronger research support.
| Goal | Human Growth Hormone (HGH) | LL-37 (Cathelicidin) |
|---|---|---|
| Recovery & Healing | high | medium |
Key Studies
Human Growth Hormone (HGH)
- Transgenic Artifacts Caused by Passenger Human Growth Hormone.
Trends in endocrinology and metabolism: TEM, 2018
- [Human growth hormone and Turner syndrome].
Anales de pediatria (Barcelona, Spain : 2003), 2017
- Significance of the disulphide bonds of human growth hormone.
Endokrynologia Polska, 2013
LL-37 (Cathelicidin)
- Cathelicidin LL-37 Expression in Human Breast Implant Capsules.
Plastic and reconstructive surgery, 2024
- Salivary Cathelicidin (LL-37) in Children and Adolescents Living with HIV.
Biomedicine hub, 2024
- Antifungal properties of cathelicidin LL-37: current knowledge and future research directions.
World journal of microbiology & biotechnology, 2023
Ready to Learn More?
Looking for trusted sources?