HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a peptide hormone that mimics luteinizing hormone (LH), stimulating testosterone production from Leydig cells and supporting spermatogenesis. Used clinically for male fertility preservation, testosterone support during replacement therapy, and post-cycle therapy recovery.

• Mimics luteinizing hormone (LH) through binding to LH receptors on Leydig cells
• Stimulates testosterone synthesis and secretion from testicular Leydig cells
• Elevates intratesticular testosterone concentration supporting Sertoli cell function
• Promotes spermatogenesis by maintaining FSH and intratesticular testosterone levels
• Activates cAMP signaling cascade in Leydig cells triggering steroidogenesis
• Long half-life (~30 hours) enables sustained endogenous hormone production

• unit: IU

  low dose: 250

  frequency: every other day or 3x weekly

  high dose: 1000

  standard dose: 500

  administration route: Subcutaneous Injection

• unit: IU

  low dose: 500

  frequency: 2-3x weekly

  high dose: 2000

  standard dose: 1000

  administration route: Intramuscular Injection

• For TRT support: 250-500 IU every other day (3x weekly) indefinitely as long as testosterone replacement continues. For PCT: 1500-5000 IU 2-3x weekly for 3-6 months, then taper. Some protocols include 2-4 week breaks every 12 weeks to prevent tachyphylaxis and maintain endogenous axis sensitivity.

common: ["Mild injection site reactions (redness, bruising)","Gynecomastia risk if estrogen aromatization not managed","Mild mood changes in sensitive individuals","Acne development during therapy"]

warnings: ["High doses may suppress FSH and natural testosterone production if used without testosterone","Risk of polycythemia at high therapeutic doses","Potential for water retention and bloating","Tachyphylaxis possible with extended use requiring breaks"]

long term: ["Long-term high-dose use may impair natural gonadotropin axis recovery","Desensitization of testicular tissue possible with continuous use","Potential for antibody formation in extended therapy"]

sequence: LQLPG (Heterodimeric hormone - alpha and beta subunits)

half life: 30 hours (serum); Peak testosterone response 48-72 hours post-injection

degradation: Hepatic metabolism and renal clearance; glycoprotein hormone with extended circulation time.

molecular weight: 36700

molecular formula: C1143H1830N329O336S4

tissue specificity: Targets Leydig cells in testicular tissue; receptor-mediated endocytosis and degradation.

• Human chorionic gonadotropin treatment for secondary hypogonadism and male infertility.reviewPMID 33345656 ↗
• HCG monotherapy for hypogonadal symptoms in men with total testosterone > 300 ng/dL.clinicalPMID 31408289 ↗