What is chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)?
Chorionic gonadotropin, commonly called hCG, is a hormone produced during pregnancy. Synthetic versions, like human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injections, treat fertility issues, induce ovulation, and support early pregnancy in medical settings.[1]
Standard medical uses for hCG
Doctors prescribe hCG for:
- Inducing ovulation in women undergoing fertility treatments like IVF.
- Treating low sperm count (hypogonadism) in men.
- Supporting luteal phase in assisted reproduction.
- Diagnosing certain tumors via blood tests (not a treatment).
hCG is not approved for weight loss; FDA warns against unproven over-the-counter hCG drops or pills for dieting.[2]
How is hCG administered?
hCG comes as injections (subcutaneous or intramuscular), not pills or drops for systemic use.
- Dosage: Varies by condition. For ovulation induction: 5,000–10,000 units injected once, 1 day after last follicle stimulation dose.[3]
- Preparation: Reconstitute powder with provided diluent using sterile technique. Store refrigerated.
- Self-injection steps (under doctor supervision):
1. Wash hands, clean vial tops with alcohol.
2. Draw diluent into syringe, inject into hCG vial, gently swirl (do not shake).
3. Draw prescribed dose into new syringe.
4. Clean injection site (abdomen or thigh), pinch skin, insert needle at 45–90° angle, inject slowly.
5. Dispose of needle in sharps container.
- Timing: Follow exact schedule from fertility specialist; monitor via ultrasound/blood tests.
Never self-medicate; requires prescription and monitoring for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).[4]
What if I'm using it for weight loss?
hCG diet injections lack evidence for fat loss beyond calorie restriction. Studies show no benefit over placebo dieting. Risks include blood clots, electrolyte imbalance. FDA prohibits hCG marketing for weight loss.[5]
Common side effects and risks
- Women: OHSS (abdominal pain, swelling), multiple pregnancies, ovarian cysts.
- Men: Acne, gynecomastia, fluid retention.
- All: Injection site pain, headache, mood changes, rare blood clots.
Seek immediate care for severe pain, shortness of breath, or leg swelling.[6]
Who should avoid hCG?
Contraindicated in prostate cancer, ovarian cysts, thyroid issues, or allergies to hCG. Inform doctor of hormone treatments or pregnancies.[7]
Where to get hCG and costs
Prescription-only from pharmacies. Brands: Pregnyl, Novarel, Ovidrel. Costs $50–200 per vial (uninsured); insurance often covers fertility use. Check DrugPatentWatch.com for generics and pricing.[8]
Sources
[1]: MedlinePlus - Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
[2]: FDA - HCG Diet Products
[3]: Drugs.com - hCG Dosage
[4]: ASRM - hCG Guidelines
[5]: NIH - hCG Weight Loss Review
[6]: Mayo Clinic - hCG Side Effects
[7]: RxList - hCG Contraindications
[8]: DrugPatentWatch.com - hCG Patents