Research & Educational Use Only. This protocol guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any research protocol.
GonadotropinEvidence Grade: A (FDA Approved)
HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) Protocol Guide
✓ Verified dosing (fact-checked against FDA labels / published trials): Route: the FDA label specifies intramuscular, but subcutaneous is widely used and accepted in fertility/TRT research practice (off-label, effective). Male hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: 500-1,000 USP Units IM 3x/week x3 wks, then 2x/week x3 wks; OR 4,000 USP Units IM 3x/week x6-9 mo, then 2,000 USP Units 3x/week x3 mo. Doses are in USP Units, reconstituted from 5,000 or 10,000-unit vials. The "2-3x per week" frequency is consistent with the male regimen, and the route is flexible β IM per label, or SubQ in common practice. This supersedes any conflicting figures shown elsewhere on this page; confirm with a licensed provider.
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a naturally occurring glycoprotein hormone that mimics luteinizing hormone (LH). It directly stimulates Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone and maintain testicular function. Widely used to prevent testicular atrophy during TRT/steroid cycles, as PCT, and for fertility support.
Protocol Overview
Compound
HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)
Category
Gonadotropin / LH Analog
Mechanism
Binds to LH receptors on testicular Leydig cells, stimulating intratesticular testosterone production and maintaining spermatogenesis. Also stimulates steroidogenic enzyme expression and pregnenolone/DHEA production
Half-Life
24-36 hours
Form
Lyophilized powder (5000-10000 IU vials) for reconstitution
Exogenous testosterone suppresses LH, causing testicular atrophy and reduced fertility. HCG at 250-500 IU 2-3x weekly mimics LH, preserving testicular size, function, and fertility while on TRT. It also maintains neurosteroid production.
How do you reconstitute HCG?▼
Add the included bacteriostatic water to the vial (typically 5000 IU vial + 5mL BAC water = 1000 IU/mL). For a 250 IU dose, draw 0.25mL (25 units on an insulin syringe). Refrigerate and use within 30 days.
Should HCG be used during PCT?▼
HCG can jumpstart recovery in the first 2-3 weeks of PCT (1000-1500 IU EOD), followed by SERM-only for 4-6 weeks. Do not use HCG for the entire PCT as prolonged use can desensitize LH receptors.
⚠ Before any use: human safety data is limited or absent for many of these compounds. Consult a licensed healthcare provider first — especially if you are pregnant or nursing, have a medical condition, or take other medications.
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