One of the several hormones generated by the endocrine gland in your brain is growth hormone (GH). It is also known as somatotropin or human growth hormone (HGH). Human growth and development are significantly influenced by GH, particularly in children and teenagers. Children and adults can experience health issues from GH levels that are either too high or too low. Your doctor will often start by ordering tests to gauge the level of GH in your blood if they have any reason to believe that your body is also creating too little or too much GH.