Hormonal Regulation FDA Approved

HCG

Also known as: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, Gonadotrofina Coriônica Humana

Molecular Identifiers

Molecular Formula

C11H19N3O6S

PubChem CID

4369448

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

Presentations & Preparation

Vials of HCG found in the research market:

5000 UI10000 UI

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
Reconstitution Calculator

Scientific Studies

Published studies on HCG.

2013 · J Urol

Concomitant intramuscular human chorionic gonadotropin preserves spermatogenesis in men undergoing testosterone replacement therapy

Hsieh TC, Pastuszak AW, Hwang K, Lipshultz LI
2019 · Int Braz J Urol

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

Related Peptides

Argipressin

5-20 IU or 1-4 mcg/kg · As clinically needed

Cetrorelix

0.25-3 mg per injection · Once daily (0.25 mg) or single dose (3 mg)

Gonadorelin

100-200 mcg per injection · 2-3 times per week

Kisspeptin-10

1-10 mcg per injection · Per research protocol

α-MSH

0.5-2 mg per injection · Once daily or every other day

Oxytocin

10-40 IU intranasal or 50-200 mcg subcutaneous · 1-2 times daily