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HCG: the complete guide

Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a glycoprotein hormone that mimics luteinizing hormone (LH). It is used clinically for fertility and hypogonadism and off-label to maintain testicular function during testosterone replacement therapy.

Written by Peptide Protocol Editorial Medically reviewed per our review process Last reviewed
ClassGlycoprotein gonadotropin
Half-lifeBiphasic: initial ~6 hours, terminal ~36 hours
Typical dose250–1,500 IU per injection (roughly 28–167 mcg), typically 2–3x weekly
CategoryGonadotropin / hormone support
Research useFertility, TRT support, hypogonadism research
FDA statusFDA approved for hypogonadism, cryptorchidism, and fertility indications. Off-label use for TRT-support is common but not FDA approved.

How HCG works

HCG binds to LH receptors on Leydig cells in the testes, stimulating endogenous testosterone and intratesticular steroidogenesis. In women, it triggers ovulation by mimicking the LH surge.

Typical HCG dosage

Commonly reported research ranges: 250–1,500 IU per injection (roughly 28–167 mcg), typically 2–3x weekly.

Dose should always be individualized. Factors that influence it include bodyweight, research goal, tolerance, and specific compound batch. The information below is educational, not a prescription.

How to reconstitute HCG

A widely used reconstitution for a 1 mg vial is 2 ml of bacteriostatic water. With a typical 56 mcg dose this works out to the unit count shown in the calculator below.

Open the HCG reconstitution calculator →

Pre-filled with the common 1 mg + 2 ml ratio. Adjust for your own vial.

Half-life and administration frequency

Biphasic: initial ~6 hours, terminal ~36 hours.

This half-life informs how often HCG is typically dosed. Shorter half-lives usually mean more frequent dosing to maintain plasma levels; longer half-lives allow daily, weekly, or less-frequent administration depending on the compound.

Reported side effects

This list reflects effects reported in available literature or user logs. It is not exhaustive. Adverse reactions should be discussed with a qualified clinician.

Common HCG stacks

Storage and handling

Lyophilized refrigerated. Reconstituted: refrigerated 2–8 °C, use within 30 days.

FDA and regulatory status

FDA approved for hypogonadism, cryptorchidism, and fertility indications. Off-label use for TRT-support is common but not FDA approved.

HCG clinical trials and evidence

For clinical-trial and primary-literature context, start with the sources below. We prioritize official drug labels, ClinicalTrials.gov records, and PubMed-indexed literature when available.

Track your HCG protocol on iPhone

Peptide Protocol logs every dose, calculates reconstitution for you, and keeps your full protocol on one calm screen.

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Frequently asked questions

What is HCG?

Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a glycoprotein hormone that mimics luteinizing hormone (LH). It is used clinically for fertility and hypogonadism and off-label to maintain testicular function during testosterone replacement therapy.

How does HCG work?

HCG binds to LH receptors on Leydig cells in the testes, stimulating endogenous testosterone and intratesticular steroidogenesis. In women, it triggers ovulation by mimicking the LH surge.

What is a typical HCG dose?

Commonly reported ranges are 250–1,500 IU per injection (roughly 28–167 mcg), typically 2–3x weekly. This is research information, not a recommendation — dosing should be individualized under clinical guidance.

What is the half-life of HCG?

Biphasic: initial ~6 hours, terminal ~36 hours. This influences how often it is administered.

How do you reconstitute HCG?

A common approach is to add 2 ml of bacteriostatic water to a 1 mg vial. Use the reconstitution calculator for exact unit counts.

What are the side effects of HCG?

Gynecomastia (estrogen conversion); Acne; Water retention; Mood changes; Injection-site reactions; Rare: ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in women.

Is HCG FDA approved?

FDA approved for hypogonadism, cryptorchidism, and fertility indications. Off-label use for TRT-support is common but not FDA approved.

Are there clinical trials for HCG?

Registered or published clinical-trial sources for HCG are listed in the references section below. Evidence depth varies widely by compound, so check the cited trial registries and primary literature before relying on any claim.

References

  1. Chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) — FDA Drugs@FDA — U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Approved HCG products for infertility and hypogonadism indications
  2. HCG in male hypogonadism and TRT literature — PubMed. Clinical use of HCG to preserve endogenous testicular function during exogenous androgen therapy
  3. HCG clinical trial records — ClinicalTrials.gov. Registered trials across fertility and hypogonadism

Sources listed above were used to verify the claims on this page. See our editorial policy for how we source information.

Educational use only. Peptide Protocol is an informational tool. Nothing on this page constitutes medical advice. Many peptides are prescription-only or restricted in your jurisdiction. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before injecting any compound.