§ 01 Overview
Overview
Pituitary-like gonadotropin that mimics LH, used in fertility, hypogonadism, and post-TRT recovery protocols.
FDA-approved for fertility and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Well-characterized.
§ 02 Mechanism
Mechanism of action
HCG binds the LH receptor on Leydig cells (in men) to stimulate endogenous testosterone and progesterone synthesis, and on granulosa cells (in women) to support ovulation.
- 01Stimulates endogenous testosterone in men on TRT
- 02Preserves testicular function and fertility on TRT
- 03Induces ovulation in fertility protocols
§ 03 Dosing
Dosing protocol
Standard Protocol
- Dose Range
- 250 – 750 IU per dose (TRT adjunct)
- Starting Dose
- 250 IU
- Route
- SubQ
- Timing
- Any time
- Frequency
- 2–3x weekly
- Cycle
- Alongside TRT or for fertility cycles
§ 04 Evidence
Evidence & research
FDA-approved for fertility and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Well-characterized.
FDA Status
FDA-approved (fertility, hypogonadism).
§ 06 News
In the news
8 articles from the last 12 months · updates hourly
HCG invites you to the 18th Golf Festival “Long Live Children with Cancer” - Universidad de Guadalajara
HCG invites you to the 18th Golf Festival “Long Live Children with Cancer” Universidad de Guadalajara
Paco Padilla celebrates 50 years of career with a benefit concert for children at the HCG - Universidad de Guadalajara
Paco Padilla celebrates 50 years of career with a benefit concert for children at the HCG Universidad de Guadalajara
HCG invites residents to the 2023 Medical Lecture Series, focused on mental health - Universidad de Guadalajara
HCG invites residents to the 2023 Medical Lecture Series, focused on mental health Universidad de Guadalajara
HCG specialists acknowledge an increase in the incidental detection of kidney cancer - Universidad de Guadalajara
HCG specialists acknowledge an increase in the incidental detection of kidney cancer Universidad de Guadalajara
Rector General awards permanent appointments to medical, technical and service staff of the HCG - Universidad de Guadalajara
Rector General awards permanent appointments to medical, technical and service staff of the HCG Universidad de Guadalajara
HCG calls on the public to get free bone density scans to prevent osteoporosis - Universidad de Guadalajara
HCG calls on the public to get free bone density scans to prevent osteoporosis Universidad de Guadalajara
The 4th Zapopan Firefighters Vertical Race, benefiting children with severe burns at the HCG, achieves its goal. - Universidad de Guadalajara
The 4th Zapopan Firefighters Vertical Race, benefiting children with severe burns at the HCG, achieves its goal. Universidad de Guadalajara
HCG specialists warn that hypertension is on the rise at the state and national levels. - Universidad de Guadalajara
HCG specialists warn that hypertension is on the rise at the state and national levels. Universidad de Guadalajara
§ 07 Sourcing
Sourcing & supply
Regulatory status
FDA-approved
This compound has an FDA approval for at least one indication. Brand pharmacy channels exist. Compounding may or may not be available depending on shortage status.
503B pharmacies · 2
Empower Pharmacy
Rx requiredOne of the largest US compounders by volume; dual 503A + 503B. Repeat FDA enforcement history and ongoing Lilly litigation.
Fagron Sterile Services
Rx requiredEstablished 503B outsourcing facility in FDA's registered list.
Telehealth (Rx) · 1
Fountain TRT / Fountain Vitality
Rx requiredUrologist-led TRT + GLP-1 platform. 4-star Trustpilot. Distinct from Fountain Life.
Listings are informational, not endorsement. Verify credentials and flags against FDA and PCAB databases before purchasing. Full directory & how to verify →
§ 09 Safety
Safety & side effects
Side effects
- 01Elevated estrogen (men)
- 02Gynecomastia risk
- 03Injection site reactions
Contraindications
None specified.
§ 10 Questions
HCG FAQ
- What is HCG?
- Pituitary-like gonadotropin that mimics LH, used in fertility, hypogonadism, and post-TRT recovery protocols. HCG binds the LH receptor on Leydig cells (in men) to stimulate endogenous testosterone and progesterone synthesis, and on granulosa cells (in women) to support ovulation.
- What is HCG used for?
- Reported uses include stimulates endogenous testosterone in men on trt, preserves testicular function and fertility on trt, and induces ovulation in fertility protocols. Evidence strength is rated Established — see the evidence section for detail.
- How is HCG dosed?
- Commonly referenced dosing is 250 – 750 IU per dose (TRT adjunct), typically 2–3x weekly, administered SubQ. This is educational reference only; consult a licensed clinician before use.
- What are the side effects of HCG?
- Commonly reported side effects include elevated estrogen (men), gynecomastia risk, and injection site reactions. This list is not exhaustive.
- Is HCG legal?
- This compound has an FDA approval for at least one indication. Brand pharmacy channels exist. Compounding may or may not be available depending on shortage status. FDA status: FDA-approved (fertility, hypogonadism)..