hCG
Generic Name:
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
Brand Names:
Ovidrel, Pregnyl, Profasi, Novarel, Chorex
hCG Description:
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone medication prescribed to treat infertility in men and women. A hormone naturally produced by the placenta during pregnancy, injectable hCG stimulates testosterone production in male testes. In women, it is often prescribed with menotropins (Menopur) and urofollitropin (Bravelle) to stimulate fertility and encourage conception.
hCG Side Effects:
Treatment with hCG may cause the following side effects:
- Bloating
- Pelvic pain
- Stomach pain
- Decreased urination
- Breast growth
- Depression
- Insomnia
For more information, visit our hCG side effects page.
hCG Uses:
HCG is prescribed to treat infertility in women. It is often prescribed to encourage conception during in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments. In men, it may help produce more testosterone in the testes helping encourage penis enlargement, pubic and underarm hair growth, and sperm production.
HCG is an intramuscular or subcutaneous injection that should only be administered under the supervision of your doctor.
HCG has occasionally been prescribed to help patients lose weight, but this is not recommended.
hCG Interactions:
Patients should speak with their doctor about the use of any medications, vitamins or supplements before taking hCG.
Patients with a history or current diagnosis of any of following conditions should consult their doctor before treatment with hCG:
- Asthma
- Seizures
- Reproductive problems
- Urinary tract problems
- Heart problems
- Kidney problems
- Migraine headaches
- Uterine or ovarian cysts or tumors
- Prostate cancer
- Precocious puberty
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Blood clots
- Brain lesions
- Pituitary gland enlargement
hCG Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
HCG doses will differ among patients and should be taken according to guidelines established by your doctor.
For women taking HCG for infertility, your doctor will determine the dose and occasion for your injections depending on your hormone levels to ensure the best chance of conception.
Men with low testosterone may receive 1000 to 4000 units of hCG two to three times a week for up to several weeks or months. Depending on the cause for your hCG treatment, your doctor may prescribe another hormonal therapy in conjunction with your treatment.
Children with cryptochidism – a condition in which the testes do not develop properly – may receive 1000 to 500 units injected two to three times a week for up to ten doses.
Missing a Dose of hCG
Call your doctor if you miss an appointment to receive your dose of hCG. Your doctor will be able to tell you if you need to come for a make-up dose or if your dose can be skipped.
HCG Overdose
It is unlikely that you will overdose from hCG treatment because you will be under the supervision of a doctor. However, if you feel you are experiencing any negative effects from your treatment, call your doctor immediately.
hCG FDA Approval:
March 5, 1973
hCG Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
There are no recalls or Black Box warnings for hCG.
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