Effect of Growth Hormone on Bone Metabolism in Anorexia Nervosa

Effect of Supraphysiological rhGH on Bone Metabolism in Patients With Anorexia Nervosa

Decreased bone strength is a serious medical problem present in many women with Anorexia Nervosa, or disordered eating. Women with weaker bones are more likely to suffer broken bones than women with normal bone strength.

We are investigating whether a hormone that is naturally produced by the human body, called growth hormone, can help strengthen the bones of women with this type of disordered eating.

• Twelve week study
• Eight visits, six of which can be conducted at your home physician's office
• Two bone density scans
• Hormonal and nutritional evaluations

Inclusion Criteria:

• women between 14 to 45 years with anorexia nervosa

Exclusion Criteria:

• pregnancy
• previous history of malignancy.
• oral contraceptive pills or other hormones within last 8 - 12 weeks
• medications known to affect bone within last 12 weeks
• fracture within last 6 months