Hormonal Modulators Peptide Hormones Approved

HCG

Also known as: Gonadotropina Coriónica Humana, hCG, Pregnyl, Ovidrel, Novarel

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a peptide hormone naturally produced by the placenta during pregnancy. It is clinically used to treat infertility in women and hypogonadism in men. In sports and bodybuilding, it is used as part of anabolic steroid cycles to restore endogenous testosterone production and prevent testicular atrophy. hCG acts by mimicking the action of luteinizing hormone (LH), stimulating Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone. It is also used in weight loss protocols as part of very low-calorie diets, although this application is controversial and not supported by strong scientific evidence. hCG is FDA-approved for medical use under prescription.

Mechanism of action

hCG binds to the LH/hCG receptor (LHCGR) on testicular Leydig cells and ovarian theca cells.

LH-like action: Stimulates testosterone production in the testes and progesterone production in the ovaries.
Corpus luteum maintenance: During pregnancy, maintains progesterone production to support the endometrium.
Ovulation induction: Triggers ovulation by mimicking the LH surge.
Spermatogenesis stimulation: In men, promotes sperm production by increasing intratesticular testosterone.

Uses & indications

Female infertility: Ovulation induction in women with anovulation or as part of assisted fertility treatments (IVF).
Male hypogonadism: Stimulation of testosterone production in men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.
Prevention of testicular atrophy: During anabolic steroid cycles, to maintain testicular size and function.
Cryptorchidism: Treatment in children with undescended testicles.

Effects

hCG produces a significant increase in testosterone levels in men, which can improve libido, energy, and muscle mass. In women, it induces ovulation and can cause multiple ovarian follicles. It may also cause fluid retention, gynecomastia (in men), and mood changes. In the context of very low-calorie diets, appetite reduction has been reported, although this effect is not scientifically proven.

Considerations & contraindications

hCG is contraindicated in cases of hormone-dependent cancers (prostate, breast), precocious puberty, active thrombophlebitis, and known allergy. Adverse effects include headache, fatigue, irritability, swelling, injection site pain, and in women, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which can be severe. It should not be used for weight loss without medical supervision, as the associated very low-calorie diets can be dangerous. In sports, it is prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

Regulatory approval

Approved by the FDA (United States) and EMA (Europe) for use in female infertility, male hypogonadism, and cryptorchidism. Marketed under brands such as Pregnyl, Novarel, Ovidrel, and Profasi. Not approved for weight loss or bodybuilding use.

Dosage

For female infertility: 5,000-10,000 IU as a single dose to induce ovulation. For male hypogonadism: 1,000-2,000 IU 2-3 times per week. For cryptorchidism: 500-1,000 IU 2-3 times per week for 4-6 weeks. Always under medical prescription.

Storage

Store refrigerated (2-8°C) before reconstitution. Once reconstituted, it can be stored refrigerated for up to 30 days. Protect from light and do not freeze.

Technical data

Regulatory status Approved

Molecular weight 36.7 kDa (heterodímero completo)

Half-life ~24-36 horas (vida media bifásica)

Administration routes Subcutánea, intramuscular

HCG