HCG
Also known as: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, Gonadotrofina Coriônica Humana
Molecular Identifiers
CAS Number
9002-61-3
Molecular Weight
~36.7 kDa
Overview
Human chorionic gonadotropin that mimics LH. Maintains testicular function during TRT. Research in fertility preservation.
FDA-approved as Pregnyl (intramuscular injection) and Ovidrel (recombinant choriogonadotropin alfa) for female infertility treatment, ovulation induction and spermatogenesis stimulation in men.
Large glycoprotein (237 amino acids, ~36.7 kDa) — hormone composed of alpha and beta subunits
Half-life
~24-36 hours
Administration Route
Subcutaneous or intramuscular
Category
Hormonal Regulation
Mechanism of Action
- LH (luteinizing hormone) mimicry
- Leydig cell stimulation
- Maintenance of intratesticular testosterone production
- Spermatogenesis support
Dosage Protocol
Data compiled from the literature. This does not constitute medical advice.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose | 250-500 IU per injection |
| Frequency | 2-3 times per week |
| Timing | Any time of day |
| Duration | As per protocol |
Reported Side Effects
Adverse effects described in the literature. Severity and frequency vary between individuals.
- Gynecomastia
- Fluid retention
- Headache
- Irritability
- Injection site pain
Product Properties
| Purity | >97% |
| Appearance | White lyophilized powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and bacteriostatic water |
| Source | Recombinant DNA technology or extraction from pregnant women urine |
| Storage | Lyophilized: -20°C for up to 2 years, 2-8°C for up to 6 months. Reconstituted: 2-8°C for up to 30 days. Protect from light and moisture. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. |
Presentations & Preparation
Vials of HCG found in the research market:
Reconstitution
- Diluent: Bacteriostatic water
- Volume: According to vial concentration
- Slowly inject the diluent against the vial wall
- Gently swirl until fully dissolved
- Never shake
Storage
- Lyophilized: Refrigerated 2-8°C
- Reconstituted: Refrigerated 2-8°C (up to 30 days)
- Protect from direct light
- Do not freeze after reconstitution
Scientific Studies
Published studies on HCG.
Concomitant intramuscular human chorionic gonadotropin preserves spermatogenesis in men undergoing testosterone replacement therapy
Hsieh TC, Pastuszak AW, Hwang K, Lipshultz LI
Human chorionic gonadotropin monotherapy for the treatment of hypogonadal symptoms in men with total testosterone > 300 ng/dL
Madhusoodanan V, Patel P, Lima TFN, Gondokusumo J, Lo E, Thirumavalavan N, Lipshultz LI, Ramasamy R
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