HCG
Also known as Human chorionic gonadotropin, Chorionic gonadotropin
A hormone used to keep the testes working and support natural testosterone.
How it's taken
a small shot into the fat just under the skin (belly, thigh, or love handle)
a deeper shot into a muscle, usually the glute, thigh, or shoulder
Availability varies by supplier — injectable is the most commonly researched form.
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- Typical frequency
- 250-500 IU, three times per week
- Cycle
- 12 weeks on, 12 off
- Half-life
- About 36 hours
- Regulatory status
- Prescription medicine.
What it does
HCG mimics luteinising hormone, the brain signal that tells the testes to make testosterone. Men use it to maintain testicular size and fertility on testosterone therapy, or to restart their own production afterwards. It is also used in fertility treatment for both sexes.
Mechanism
Binds LH receptors on Leydig cells, directly stimulating testosterone and sperm production downstream of the pituitary.
Storage — lyophilisedwhat's this?
Refrigerate the sealed vial of powder.
Storage — reconstitutedwhat's this?
Refrigerate after mixing; typically stable about 30-60 days.
Reconstitution noteswhat's this?
Mix a 1,000 IU vial with 1 mL (100 units) of bacteriostatic water, so 1 unit on a U-100 syringe equals 10 IU. 250 IU is 25 units, 500 IU is 50 units. Larger 5,000 IU vials are usually mixed with 5 mL for the same maths. Dose on the same days each week.
Stacks well with
- Kisspeptin-10Both work on the hormone axis — kisspeptin upstream in the brain, HCG directly at the testes.
- PT-141Hormone support plus direct libido effect.
Popular combinations reported in the community and research literature — not a recommendation. Adding peptides multiplies side-effect risk; check with a clinician.
Commonly reported side effects
- Water retention
- Acne
- Mood swings
- Heart palpitations or anxiety early on
- Raised oestrogen
Contraindications noted
- Hormone-sensitive cancers
- Pregnancy unless prescribed for fertility
Research notes
Well-established clinical use in fertility and hypogonadism. Dosing for testosterone support should be guided by bloodwork.
Track this properly
Work out syringe units with the calculator, or set up a full schedule in about a minute.
Reference information only, not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.