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HCG

Also: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin

LH-mimetic used for HPTA preservation on TRT, post-cycle therapy, and fertility induction.

Evidence
established
Legal status
rx only
Half-life
~24-36 hours
Routes
subq · im
What it is

HCG is the gold-standard tool for keeping the testes producing endogenous testosterone and sperm during exogenous TRT, and for restarting the HPTA after AAS cycles. In women, it triggers ovulation in fertility protocols. Bloodwork and clinician supervision are mandatory.

Mechanism

Glycoprotein hormone that mimics LH at the LH/CG receptor on Leydig cells (men) and corpus luteum (women), driving endogenous steroidogenesis.

Outcomes it's matched to
Safety

Elevated estradiol and acne are common at therapeutic doses. Monitor E2, hematocrit, and testicular response.

  • Hormone-sensitive cancer
  • Pregnancy (unless prescribed)
  • Precocious puberty
Legal context

FDA-approved (Pregnyl, Novarel) for fertility and select endocrine indications. Off-label for HPTA preservation.

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