No. Most people reach adult height by 18 years; girls reach by 14-15 years, and boys by 16-18 years. A person gains height when their bones grow progressively. The bones grow at a growth plate (epiphyseal cartilage). However, due to the effect of male and female hormones, the cartilage plate reduces in width and ultimately fuses, preventing any further growth. The status of the growth plate can be checked in X-rays.
So, in adults, there is no more growth plate to promote growth. So, normal adults cannot grow taller even if they take growth hormone. However, the growth plate remains open for a long time in diseases like growth hormone deficiency. Hence, growth may continue beyond 18 years. However, this growth is promoted only when treated with growth hormone.
So don’t fall for therapies advertised to promote height in adults. Despite the best efforts, it will not happen.
Dr. Mathew John MD, DM