Deer antler velvet contains IGF-1, which is why it gets linked to growth hormone, but human trials have not shown that it raises HGH or clearly improves athletic performance. A 10-week trial in 46 rowers found no change in growth hormone responses, and a systematic review of seven randomized trials found no convincing evidence of effectiveness. Anti-doping agencies also warn that velvet products can carry IGF-1, which is prohibited in sport.
What Deer Antler Velvet Is
Velvet antler is a dietary supplement made from the antlers of deer or elk, according to a systematic review in the New Zealand Medical Journal. The U.S. Anti-Doping Agency notes that deer antler velvet can contain detectable quantities of IGF-1, the growth factor that HGH triggers, which is why it draws attention in discussions of growth hormone. The agency adds that IGF-1 taken by mouth would be expected to be fully broken down during digestion.
The Rower Trial
In a 10-week trial of 25 male and 21 female rowers, 560 milligrams a day of elk velvet antler or placebo was taken during training. There was no significant difference between the antler and placebo groups for any hormonal response, including growth hormone, which rose after the race in both groups and returned to baseline by 60 minutes. Rowing performance also did not improve beyond training alone.
The Trial in Active Men
In a 10-week trial of 38 active men taking deer antler velvet extract (1.5 grams a day), powder, or placebo alongside strength training, all groups improved six-repetition strength equally. The powder group gained more in knee extensor strength (30 versus 13 percent) and endurance (21 versus 7 percent).
What the Systematic Review Found
A systematic review in the New Zealand Medical Journal identified seven randomized trials of velvet antler, covering rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, sexual function, and sporting performance (three trials). Two reported some positive effects, but neither was convincing, and five found no effect. The authors concluded that claims for velvet antler are not based on rigorous human research, and noted that all but one trial were underpowered.
Anti-Doping Considerations
The U.S. Anti-Doping Agency notes that deer antler velvet can contain detectable quantities of IGF-1, a prohibited substance, and that the World Anti-Doping Agency says there is no guarantee IGF-1 in oral products will not cause a positive test.
What This Means for You
The velvet antler trials are small and mostly older, so they give little reason to expect a hormone effect. If your goal is to support your own growth hormone, sleep and training are better documented. Cleveland Clinic notes that in healthy people, HGH release is stimulated by sleep and exercise, among other factors. Athletes in tested sports should skip velvet products unless their anti-doping organization clears them.
How HGH Releasers Differ From Prescription HGH
Every study described here tested velvet antler on its own. Prescription HGH is an injectable medicine that doctors prescribe for specific medical conditions. HGH releasers are a separate category: over-the-counter dietary supplements formulated with ingredients, such as amino acids and other nutrients, intended to support your pituitary gland’s own release of HGH. The two are different products and are studied separately. Like other dietary supplements, HGH releasers are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition.
Where HGH Releasers Fit Into a Healthy Routine
Men who take a releaser typically do so as one part of a routine that includes training, nutrition, and rest. If you are curious about trying one, it is sensible to check with your doctor first, particularly if you take medication or have an existing health condition. If you compete in a sport with drug testing, also check with your sport’s anti-doping organization before using any supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deer Antler Velvet
Are HGH Releasers the Same as Prescription HGH?
No. Prescription HGH is an injectable medicine used for specific medical conditions. HGH releasers are over-the-counter dietary supplements formulated to support the body’s own natural growth hormone release.
Can Deer Antler Velvet Cause a Positive Drug Test?
It might. The U.S. Anti-Doping Agency says velvet can contain detectable IGF-1, a prohibited substance, and WADA says there is no guarantee oral products will not cause a positive test. Tested athletes should check with their anti-doping organization.
Should I Talk to My Doctor Before Trying an HGH Releaser?
Checking with your doctor is a smart step, especially if you take medication or have a health condition. Your doctor can help you decide whether a supplement fits your situation.
