HCG
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
An FDA-approved gonadotropin used in fertility and to maintain testicular function and testosterone production in men.
Overview
Human chorionic gonadotropin is a hormone that mimics luteinizing hormone. It is FDA-approved for fertility treatment and for certain forms of hypogonadism, and it is widely used in men on testosterone therapy to preserve testicular size, function, and fertility. Its use for weight loss, by contrast, is not supported and has been warned against by the FDA.
Mechanism of action
Activates LH receptors to stimulate testicular testosterone production and, in women, support ovulation and the corpus luteum.
Key studies & citations
- Human2005
Low-dose human chorionic gonadotropin maintains intratesticular testosterone in normal men with testosterone-induced gonadotropin suppression
Randomized study in 29 men: low-dose hCG every other day preserved intratesticular testosterone during exogenous testosterone.
Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism - Human2013
Concomitant intramuscular human chorionic gonadotropin preserves spermatogenesis in men undergoing testosterone replacement therapy
26 men on TRT plus low-dose hCG maintained semen parameters over a mean 6.2 months.
Journal of Urology - Review1995
The effect of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in the treatment of obesity by means of the Simeons therapy: a criteria-based meta-analysis
Meta-analysis of 24 trials found no scientific basis for hCG as an adjunct in obesity treatment.
British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology - Review2020
Avoid dangerous HCG diet products
FDA: hCG is approved only for infertility and other specific uses, not weight loss; no substantial evidence it increases weight loss beyond caloric restriction.
FDA consumer update
Frequently asked questions
Is HCG useful for weight loss?
No. The FDA has stated HCG is not effective for weight loss and has warned against products marketing it that way. Its approved uses are in fertility and hypogonadism.