A naturally occurring gonadotropin that stimulates testosterone production and maintains testicular function during TRT.
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a glycoprotein hormone naturally produced by the syncytiotrophoblast cells of the placenta during pregnancy. It is structurally similar to luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), all sharing a common alpha subunit with unique beta subunits conferring receptor specificity. In research and wellness contexts, HCG is used to stimulate endogenous testosterone production in men, prevent testicular atrophy during exogenous androgen use, and support fertility. It is also used in post-cycle therapy (PCT) protocols to restore the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis after suppression. In women, HCG triggers ovulation and is used in assisted reproductive technologies.
* Benefits based on preclinical/animal research unless otherwise noted.
HCG binds to LH/CG receptors (LHCGR) on Leydig cells in the testes, activating the Gs-cAMP-PKA signaling cascade that stimulates steroidogenesis — the conversion of cholesterol to testosterone. This pathway is identical to that activated by endogenous LH, which is why HCG can substitute for LH in maintaining testicular function during periods of HPG axis suppression. HCG also stimulates Sertoli cells to support spermatogenesis and maintains testicular volume by preventing the atrophy that occurs with prolonged LH suppression. In women, HCG mimics the LH surge that triggers final oocyte maturation and ovulation. Its longer half-life compared to LH (approximately 36 hours vs. 20 minutes) makes it pharmacologically advantageous for research applications.
Protocol Notes: During TRT: 250–500 IU 2–3x/week to maintain testicular function. Post-cycle therapy: 500–1000 IU every other day for 2–3 weeks. Monitor LH, FSH, testosterone, and estradiol.
Add 1 mL bacteriostatic water to 5000 IU vial → 5000 IU/mL For 500 IU dose: draw 0.1 mL (10 units on U-100 syringe)
When sourcing HCG for research purposes, the following quality benchmarks should be verified before use.
Lyophilized: refrigerate. Reconstituted: refrigerate and use within 30 days.
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Strong Evidence — Multiple randomized controlled trials with high confidence in efficacy and safety data.
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