HCG

Descrição

HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) is a naturally occurring glycoprotein hormone produced during pregnancy that mimics luteinizing hormone (LH) by binding to LH receptors on Leydig cells in the testes, stimulating endogenous testosterone production, supporting spermatogenesis, and maintaining testicular size and function. In men, prescription HCG is FDA-approved for the treatment of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (to induce or maintain fertility and testosterone levels) and prepubertal cryptorchidism (undescended testicles). In men’s health and hormone optimization practices, HCG is widely used off-label to:

• Prevent or reverse testicular atrophy and shrinkage during testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) or anabolic steroid cycles
• Preserve fertility and sperm production in men on exogenous testosterone or suppressive therapies
• Support post-cycle therapy (PCT) to restore natural hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis function after steroid use
• Maintain intratesticular testosterone levels essential for spermatogenesis Typical protocols involve subcutaneous or intramuscular injections of 250–500 IU (sometimes up to 1,000–2,000 IU) administered 2–3 times per week, often alongside TRT or during/after cycles, with dosing adjusted based on bloodwork (testosterone, estradiol, LH/FSH, hematocrit). Clinical evidence and extensive clinical experience show HCG effectively maintains testicular volume, supports sperm count and motility in hypogonadal men, and helps prevent the low intratesticular testosterone environment caused by exogenous androgens. When used properly, HCG can improve mood, libido, energy, and overall well-being in men on long-term testosterone therapy by preserving natural endocrine signaling. Common side effects include injection-site reactions, mild fluid retention, gynecomastia or elevated estradiol (requiring aromatase inhibitor management in some cases), acne, or headache; rare concerns involve overstimulation leading to high estradiol or polycythemia. HCG requires a prescription and close medical supervision with regular blood monitoring (testosterone, estradiol, hematocrit, PSA) to optimize dosing, prevent side effects, and ensure safety. It is contraindicated in hormone-dependent cancers (e.g., prostate or breast), precocious puberty, or known hypersensitivity. While highly effective for its intended purposes, HCG use for weight loss (the old Simeon diet protocol) is not supported by modern evidence and is considered unsafe/unapproved by major medical organizations. Always use HCG only under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in men’s hormone therapy for proper evaluation, individualized dosing, monitoring, and integration into a comprehensive treatment plan.

ALSO SEE