Too big too soon.

Synthetic human growth hormone, which succeeded the dangerous natural product obtained from the pituitary glands of human corpses, is an outstandingly successful example of a genetically produced drug. The enthusiasm with which it is administered to children, however, raises the question of whether it is being used not only unnecessarily but with the effect of making short stature seem socially disadvantageous. It also appears to have a beneficial effect on pituitary- deficient adults by building up heart-muscle and protecting against heart disease. However, its long term effects, if any, are not yet known and the programme asks whether a brake should be applied to its use. The drug is also open to abuse in the sports world, where a black market has arisen, encouraged by the fact that it cannot be detected in blood tests. Much of the black market supply is smuggled in from Eastern Europe and may contain the natural product whose dangers are well documented.