Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG)
FDA ApprovedHeterodimeric glycoprotein
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a glycoprotein hormone that has been extensively studied in reproductive endocrinology research. It shares structural similarity with luteinizing hormone (LH) and has been investigated for its effects on gonadotropin receptor signaling. Published research has examined its role in corpus luteum maintenance and steroidogenesis. RaysunPeptide supplies HCG for qualified research and laboratory applications.
Mechanism of Action
Binds to LH receptors on Leydig cells in testes, stimulating testosterone production with a half-life of 24-36 hours, peak levels 6-12 hours post-injection, and 40-50% bioavailability via SubQ or IM routes.
Key Benefits
Molecular Data
Dosing Protocols
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| TRT Adjunct (Low) | 250-500 IU | Every other day | SubQ/IM |
| TRT Adjunct (Standard) | 500-1000 IU | Twice weekly | SubQ/IM |
| HCG Monotherapy | 1500-2000 IU | 2-3x weekly | IM |
| Fertility (with FSH) | 1500-2000 IU | 2-3x weekly | IM |
| Cryptorchidism (Pediatric) | 1000-5000 IU | 2-3x weekly for 3-4 weeks | IM |
| Ovulation Trigger (Female) | 5000-10,000 IU | Single dose | IM/SubQ |
| PCT Protocol | 1000-1500 IU | Every other day for 2-3 weeks | SubQ/IM |
Research Indications
Male Fertility
Maintains intratesticular testosterone at baseline during testosterone therapy, preventing atrophy and preserving fertility.
FDA-approved for secondary hypogonadism; combined with FSH for spermatogenesis induction.
Restores testicular function after anabolic steroid cycles.
Female Fertility
FDA-approved trigger for follicular maturation; 15-25% pregnancy rate per cycle.
Pediatric
FDA-approved for prepubertal undescended testes not due to anatomical obstruction; ~25% success rate.
Peptide Interactions
Commonly combined in TRT to maintain testicular function and preserve fertility.
Use sequentially; both affect HPG axis.
Commonly combined; HCG increases intratesticular aromatase activity.
Monitor combination effects on gonadotropin axis.
Synergistic for fertility; 70-90% spermatogenesis induction rate.
Complementary mechanisms for HPG axis stimulation.
HCG has weak TSH-like activity; monitor thyroid function.
Protective combination for metabolic health.
What to Expect
Side Effects & Safety
Common (Generally Mild)
- •Gynecomastia (breast tenderness/swelling) due to increased estrogen
- •Headaches, irritability, and mood swings (especially initially)
- •Fluid retention and edema
- •Potential antibody formation with long-term use
Stop Signs (Seek Medical Attention)
- ⚠Signs of gynecomastia (breast tenderness, swelling, nipple sensitivity)
- ⚠Severe or persistent headaches
- ⚠Signs of blood clots (leg swelling/pain, shortness of breath, chest pain)
- ⚠Allergic reactions (rash, hives, difficulty breathing, facial swelling)
- ⚠Severe abdominal pain or bloating in women (possible OHSS)
- ⚠Testicular pain or swelling beyond normal
- ⚠Significant mood changes (depression, aggression, severe irritability)
- ⚠Vision changes
Contraindications
- ✕Hormone-sensitive cancers (prostate, breast)
- ✕Pregnancy (except as prescribed)
- ✕Precocious puberty risk in children
Quality Checklist
Good Signs ✓
- White to off-white lyophilized powder or cake in sealed vial
- Completely clear solution after reconstitution
- Proper labeling: Pregnyl, Novarel (urinary), Ovidrel (recombinant)
- Clear expiration and lot number
- Cold chain compliance (recombinant requires refrigeration throughout)
Warning Signs !
- Generic/compounding pharmacy products - quality varies
- Ensure compounding pharmacy is accredited
Bad Signs ✕
- Cloudiness, discoloration, or floating particles indicates degradation
- Compromised vial seal or expired product
References
29 men randomized to testosterone enanthate plus 125, 250, or 500 IU HCG every other day. 250 IU maintained intratesticular testosterone within 7% of baseline, preserving fertility potential during TRT.
View on PubMed →HCG monotherapy safe and efficacious for hypogonadal symptoms. Erectile dysfunction improved in 86% (19/22), libido in 80% (20/25). No thromboembolic events.
View on PubMed →Combined HCG and FSH therapy induces spermatogenesis in 86% (95% CI 82-91%) of men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. HCG alone achieves 40% (95% CI 25-56%).
View on PubMed →Meta-analysis of 13 studies with 872 boys and 1,174 undescended testes. Overall HCG success rate of 24%. Significant effect on bilateral but not unilateral cryptorchidism.
View on PubMed →Confirmed ~25% success rate for HCG in cryptorchidism treatment. All side effects were transitory and not severe.
View on PubMed →FAQs
