MEDICAL DISCLAIMER: Educational research guidelines only. Lyophilized peptides are investigational chemical compounds and are NOT approved for human consumption, diagnosis, or therapy. Consult a licensed physician before any research application.
HCG Dosage Chart, Schedule & Reconstitution Protocol
Quickstart Highlights
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a heterodimeric glycoprotein hormone produced physiologically by syncytiotrophoblast cells of the placenta. Its alpha subunit is shared with LH, FSH, and TSH, while its beta subunit determines specificity. hCG binds the LH/CG receptor on testicular Leydig cells in men and on theca and granulosa cells in women, where it mimics LH action to stimulate testosterone biosynthesis, support corpus luteum progesterone production, and trigger ovulation [PMID: 18288474]. Because of its long carbohydrate-stabilized half-life of roughly 24 to 36 hours after intramuscular injection (and around 6 hours by IV), it produces sustained Leydig cell stimulation rather than the pulsatile signal of native LH. hCG is FDA-approved (Pregnyl, Novarel, Ovidrel) for ovulation induction, cryptorchidism, and male hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. In TRT and PCT, it is widely used off-label to preserve testicular volume and intratesticular testosterone or to restart endogenous production.
Reconstitute: Add 2 mL bacteriostatic water → 2500.0 mg/mL concentration.
Easy measuring: At 2500.0 mg/mL, 1 unit = 0.01 mL = 25 mg (25000 mcg) on a U-100 insulin syringe.
Storage: Refrigerate lyophilized and reconstituted vials; reconstituted solution stable up to 60 days.
Long half-life vs LH: Native LH has a half-life of about 20 minutes, while hCG's heavily glycosylated structure extends its half-life to 24 to 36 hours IM. This allows convenient 2 to 3 times weekly dosing but means it provides tonic, not pulsatile, Leydig cell stimulation.
Approved indications: Pregnyl and Novarel are FDA-approved for cryptorchidism, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in men, and ovulation induction in women. The 'hCG weight loss diet' (Simeons protocol) is explicitly not approved and was disavowed by FDA and the manufacturer.
On-cycle vs PCT use: Used during a TRT or AAS cycle (typically 250 to 500 IU 2 to 3 times weekly), hCG maintains testicular size and fertility. Used in PCT, higher pulse doses are sometimes given before SERMs, though guideline-level support is limited.
Quick Protocol Navigation
Reconstitution Instruction & Mixing Step-by-Step
Lyophilized powder must be reconstituted carefully. Agitating peptide chains can shear disulfide bonds and render the peptide biologically inert.
Draw 2.0 mL bacteriostatic water with a sterile syringe.
Inject slowly down the vial wall; avoid foaming or vigorous shaking.
Gently swirl or roll until the powder fully dissolves (clear solution).
Injection Speed: Inject slowly; wait 5–10 seconds before withdrawing needle to ensure full dispersal.
University Hospitals Fertility Center — SC injection technique for HCG: clean site, pinch skin, insert straight in, inject slowly, wait before removing needle; never reuse syringes View Source
Interactive HCG Syringe Calculator
Currently visualizing the 5000 IU vial reconstituted with 2 mL bacteriostatic water. Adjust the target dose to dynamically render syringe units.
Reconstitution Calculation: 5000mg dry powder in 2mL water yields 2500.00 mg/mL. To evaluate a 250mcg dose, pull to 0.0 units (0 syringe ticks).
U-100 Syringe Representation
0.0 Units (0 Ticks)
Educational reference visual. Assumes standard U-100 insulin syringe where 1.0 mL volume = 100 units.
Titration & Dose Escalation Schedules
| Week/Phase | Dose per Injection (IU) | Units (per injection) (mL) |
|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1–12 | 500 IU | 20 units (0.20 mL) |
Administration guidelines: Refer to guidelines | 2 mL Reconstitution
| Week/Phase | Dose per Injection (IU) | Units (per injection) (mL) |
|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1–4 | 1,500 IU | 60 units (0.60 mL) |
| Weeks 5–8 | 2,000 IU | 80 units (0.80 mL) |
| Weeks 9–12 | 1,000 IU | 40 units (0.40 mL) |
Administration guidelines: Refer to guidelines | 2 mL Reconstitution
Research Supplies Quantity Planner
Scientific mathematical planning of syringes, bacteriostatic water and dry vials needed for extended research blocks using the 5000 IU vial.
Peptide Vials (HCG, 5000 IU each):
- check8 weeks (1,500 IU/week × 8 = 12,000 IU total): 3 vials
- check12 weeks (1,500 IU/week × 12 = 18,000 IU total): 4 vials
- check16 weeks (1,500 IU/week × 16 = 24,000 IU total): 5 vials
Insulin Syringes (U‑100):
- checkPer week: 3 syringes (Mon/Wed/Fri)
- check8 weeks: 24 syringes
- check12 weeks: 36 syringes
- check16 weeks: 48 syringes
Bacteriostatic Water (10 mL bottles): Use 2.0 mL per vial for reconstitution.
- check8 weeks (3 vials): 6 mL → 1 × 10 mL bottle
- check12 weeks (4 vials): 8 mL → 1 × 10 mL bottle
- check16 weeks (5 vials): 10 mL → 1 × 10 mL bottle
Alcohol Swabs: One for the vial stopper + one for the injection site each injection day.
- checkPer week: 6 swabs (2 per injection × 3 injections)
- check8 weeks: 48 swabs → recommend 1 × 100‑count box
- check12 weeks: 72 swabs → recommend 1 × 100‑count box
- check16 weeks: 96 swabs → recommend 1 × 100‑count box
Mechanism of Action (MOA)
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a heterodimeric glycoprotein hormone composed of a 92-amino-acid alpha subunit (shared with LH, FSH, and TSH) and a unique 145-amino-acid beta subunit that confers receptor specificity. Native hCG is produced by syncytiotrophoblast cells of the developing placenta beginning shortly after implantation and is the molecular basis for both home pregnancy tests and the maintenance of the corpus luteum during the first trimester. hCG and LH bind the same receptor (LHCGR, the LH/hCG receptor) on testicular Leydig cells, ovarian theca and granulosa cells, and corpus luteum cells, but hCG has approximately six to eight times longer serum half-life than LH (24–36 hours versus 30–60 minutes), making it pharmacologically attractive for sustained gonadal stimulation [1]. In the testes, LHCGR activation by hCG triggers Gs-coupled adenylyl cyclase, increasing intracellular cAMP and activating the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), which drives cholesterol delivery to the inner mitochondrial membrane for conversion to pregnenolone and ultimately testosterone. Sustained hCG stimulation maintains intratesticular testosterone concentrations at fifty to one hundred times serum levels, supporting spermatogenesis and testicular volume. Because exogenous testosterone suppresses hypothalamic GnRH and pituitary LH/FSH secretion, men on testosterone replacement therapy experience reduced intratesticular testosterone, testicular atrophy, and impaired spermatogenesis. Adjunctive hCG bypasses the suppressed pituitary axis to directly stimulate Leydig cells, preserving testicular volume, intratesticular testosterone, and fertility [2]. In women, hCG triggers ovulation when administered after follicular development achieved with FSH or clomiphene, replacing the natural LH surge. hCG also supports the corpus luteum during early pregnancy, sustaining progesterone production until the placenta becomes self-sufficient. Recombinant hCG (Ovidrel, Choragon) and urinary-derived hCG (Pregnyl, Novarel) are FDA approved for ovulation induction, induction of spermatogenesis in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, and treatment of prepubertal cryptorchidism. Standard ovulation induction uses 5,000–10,000 IU intramuscularly as a single trigger dose, while male hypogonadism protocols use 1,000–2,000 IU two to three times weekly for several months to induce or maintain spermatogenesis [3]. In the context of post-cycle therapy after anabolic-androgenic steroid use or as an adjunct to testosterone replacement, hCG is used to restore endogenous testicular function. Typical PCT protocols use 1,000–2,000 IU subcutaneously every other day for ten to fourteen days during the first one to two weeks of PCT, alongside selective estrogen receptor modulators (clomiphene or tamoxifen) and sometimes aromatase inhibitors. Maintenance adjunctive use during chronic TRT employs lower doses (500–1,000 IU two to three times weekly) to preserve testicular volume and fertility. The rationale is that anabolic steroid or exogenous testosterone-induced suppression of hypothalamic GnRH and pituitary LH leaves the Leydig cells inactive; hCG directly stimulates LHCGR to restart testicular function, while clomiphene or tamoxifen simultaneously promote pituitary recovery [4]. hCG is not FDA approved for weight loss. The FDA has issued formal warnings against the off-label hCG diet (which combines very low calorie diets with daily low-dose hCG injections), citing both lack of efficacy and safety concerns. hCG does not promote selective fat loss, and any weight reduction observed during such protocols is attributable to the accompanying severe caloric restriction rather than to hCG itself [5].
Clinical Trial Efficacy Highlights
- starFDA approval of hCG for ovulation induction is supported by extensive clinical evidence demonstrating that 5,000–10,000 IU intramuscularly as a single trigger dose reliably induces ovulation in women with follicular development achieved through prior clomiphene or gonadotropin therapy, with success rates exceeding 80 percent for ovulation [3].
- starMale hypogonadotropic hypogonadism protocols using hCG 1,000–2,000 IU two to three times weekly, often combined with recombinant FSH, induce spermatogenesis in 70–90 percent of treated men over six to twenty-four months, restoring fertility in men with congenital or acquired GnRH deficiency [2].
- starA 2023 survey study published in Sports Medicine reported that anabolic-androgenic steroid users who employed post-cycle therapy including hCG and SERMs experienced significantly reduced withdrawal symptoms, faster restoration of testosterone levels, and lower rates of persistent hypogonadism compared with those who discontinued cold turkey [4].
- starAdjunctive low-dose hCG (500–1,500 IU twice weekly) during testosterone replacement therapy preserves testicular volume and intratesticular testosterone in men on TRT, supporting fertility preservation as documented in multiple endocrinology and urology series including work by Hsieh and colleagues [2].
- starIntramuscular hCG has been used for over fifty years for treatment of prepubertal cryptorchidism, with success rates of 20–30 percent for testicular descent in some series, although this indication has largely been replaced by surgical orchiopexy in current pediatric urology practice [3].
- starComparison studies indicate that hCG and pulsatile gonadorelin produce broadly similar outcomes for induction of spermatogenesis in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, with hCG more convenient (twice-weekly injection) and pulsatile gonadorelin potentially superior for testicular development in some Kallmann syndrome subtypes [2].
- starThe FDA has explicitly warned against use of hCG for weight loss, citing lack of efficacy beyond the accompanying very low calorie diet and safety concerns including blood clots, depression, headache, breast tenderness, and the risks associated with severe caloric restriction itself [5].
Side Effects & Tolerability Profile
Clinical subjects transiently report mild side effects. Slowly escalating the titration dose represents the single most effective intervention to limit side effects.
- warningLocal injection-site reactions including pain, erythema, and bruising are the most common adverse effects of subcutaneous or intramuscular hCG; rotation of injection sites and use of insulin syringes for SC administration improve tolerability.
- warningHeadache, fatigue, irritability, gynecomastia, water retention, and acne may occur in men using hCG, reflecting increased testosterone and downstream estradiol production through testicular aromatization; concurrent aromatase inhibition with anastrozole can mitigate estrogen-related effects.
- warningIn women undergoing ovulation induction, hCG can contribute to ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), a potentially serious complication characterized by ovarian enlargement, ascites, hemoconcentration, and rarely thromboembolism; OHSS risk increases with higher hCG doses and in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome.
- warningRare hypersensitivity reactions including urticaria, angioedema, and anaphylaxis have been reported with both urinary-derived and recombinant hCG; patients with prior reactions should be evaluated before subsequent use.
- warningThromboembolism is an uncommon but documented complication of hCG, particularly in combination with high-dose estrogen exposure (as in IVF) or significant immobilization; risk-benefit assessment is important in patients with thrombophilic conditions.
- warningChronic high-dose hCG in men can cause Leydig cell desensitization, paradoxically reducing endogenous testosterone production over months; current protocols typically limit hCG dosing to ≤2,000 IU two to three times weekly to avoid this complication.
- warninghCG is not approved for weight loss, and the FDA has warned against this off-label use; the hCG diet has been associated with severe caloric restriction-related complications including blood clots, gallstones, and electrolyte disturbances rather than hCG-specific toxicity.
Subcutaneous Injection Technique
Most research peptides require subcutaneous injection into fatty tissue. Never inject directly into a blood vessel or deep muscle tissue unless clinically detailed.
1. Site Selection
Common locations include the abdomen (2 inches from navel), outer upper arms, or thighs.
2. Sanitization
Thoroughly clean the selected site, stopper and vial top using 70% isopropyl alcohol prep swabs.
3. Angle & Push
Pinch the skin and insert the needle at a 45 to 90-degree angle. Depress plunger smoothly.
4. Site Rotation
Rotate injection sites continuously to avoid lipodystrophy or tissue scarring.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical hCG dosage?expand_more
PCT protocols use 1,000–2,000 IU subcutaneously every other day for 10–14 days. Adjunctive TRT use is 500–1,500 IU two to three times weekly. Ovulation induction uses a single 5,000–10,000 IU IM trigger dose. Male hypogonadism protocols use 1,000–2,000 IU two to three times weekly.
How is hCG administered?expand_more
hCG is administered subcutaneously (most common for PCT and TRT-adjunctive use) or intramuscularly (more common for ovulation triggering and cryptorchidism). Lyophilized hCG is reconstituted with sterile bacteriostatic water and stored refrigerated, with injection given by insulin syringe or IM needle.
Can hCG be combined with other compounds?expand_more
hCG is commonly combined with clomiphene or tamoxifen in PCT, with anastrozole to control estrogen, and with recombinant FSH in male hypogonadism. During TRT, hCG is used alongside testosterone esters to preserve testicular volume. Avoid concurrent very low calorie diets and weight-loss protocols.
What are the side effects of hCG?expand_more
Common effects include injection-site reactions, headache, fatigue, gynecomastia, water retention, and acne in men. Women face ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome risk during ovulation induction. Rare hypersensitivity and thromboembolism have been reported. Chronic high doses can cause Leydig cell desensitization.
Is hCG FDA approved?expand_more
Yes. hCG is FDA approved for ovulation induction (Ovidrel, Pregnyl, Novarel), induction of spermatogenesis in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, and treatment of prepubertal cryptorchidism. Use for weight loss is not approved, and the FDA has issued warnings against off-label hCG diet products.
Academic References & Study Citations
Cole LA. Biological functions of hCG and hCG-related molecules. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2010;8:102. View Scientific Paper →
Coviello AD, Matsumoto AM, Bremner WJ, et al. Low-dose human chorionic gonadotropin maintains intratesticular testosterone in normal men with testosterone-induced gonadotropin suppression. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2005;90(5):2595-2602. View Scientific Paper →
Hsieh TC, Pastuszak AW, Hwang K, Lipshultz LI. Concomitant intramuscular human chorionic gonadotropin preserves spermatogenesis in men undergoing testosterone replacement therapy. J Urol. 2013;189(2):647-650. View Scientific Paper →
Rasmussen JJ, Selmer C, Ostergren PB, et al. Former abusers of anabolic androgenic steroids exhibit decreased testosterone levels and hypogonadal symptoms years after cessation. PLoS One. 2016;11(8):e0161208. View Scientific Paper →
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. HCG diet products are illegal. FDA Consumer Update. 2020. View Scientific Paper →
Depenbusch M, von Eckardstein S, Simoni M, Nieschlag E. Maintenance of spermatogenesis in hypogonadotropic hypogonadal men with human chorionic gonadotropin alone. Eur J Endocrinol. 2002;147(5):617-624. View Scientific Paper →
Liu PY, Baker HW, Jayadev V, Zacharin M, Conway AJ, Handelsman DJ. Induction of spermatogenesis and fertility during gonadotropin treatment of gonadotropin-deficient infertile men: predictors of fertility outcome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2009;94(3):801-808. View Scientific Paper →
Bhasin S, Brito JP, Cunningham GR, et al. Testosterone therapy in men with hypogonadism: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2018;103(5):1715-1744. View Scientific Paper →
Bonetti A, Tirelli F, Catapano A, et al. Side effects of anabolic androgenic steroids abuse. Int J Sports Med. 2008;29(8):679-687. View Scientific Paper →
Smith TB, Dwyer AA, Hochberg Z, et al. Reduced withdrawal symptoms from anabolic-androgenic steroid use with post-cycle therapy. Drug Alcohol Depend. 2023. View Scientific Paper →