Ibuprofen mesylate has been shown to increase plasma levels of GH and IGF-1, but not cortisol. Potential treatments that are currently being developed reduce these hormone levels, such as in children or the elderly with growth hormone deficiency, and human studies have shown increased muscle and bone mineral density, making it a promising treatment for frail elderly people. It also changes the metabolism of body fat, so it may be used in the treatment of obesity.