HCG
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a glycoprotein hormone naturally produced during pregnancy that mimics luteinizing hormone (LH) activity. It's FDA-approved for fertility treatments and hypogonadism in men. HCG stimulates testosterone production in males and triggers ovulation in females, making it valuable for hormone support, fertility preservation during testosterone therapy, and reproductive treatments.
Complete Dosing Guide
Patient Education
Helping you understand how to use HCG properly is key to your success. Here's what you need to know:
How to Inject HCG Correctly
Before You Start:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Check the solution - should be clear without particles
- Gather supplies: alcohol wipes, syringe, sharps container
Steps to Inject Subcutaneously:
- Clean injection site with alcohol wipe and let dry
- Draw up prescribed dose into insulin syringe
- Pinch skin at injection site (abdomen or thigh)
- Insert needle at 45-90 degree angle
- Inject slowly and steadily
- Remove needle and apply gentle pressure
- Dispose of needle in sharps container
Injection Site Rotation:
- Rotate between left and right sides of abdomen
- Stay 2 inches away from navel
- Can also use outer thighs
- Mark or track injection sites to ensure rotation
Why It's Important to Stick to Your Schedule
Maintain Stable Levels:
- HCG has a 30-hour half-life
- Consistent dosing maintains steady hormone levels
- Prevents peaks and valleys in testosterone
Set Reminders:
- Use phone alarms for injection days
- Keep a dosing calendar
- Link to routine activities (e.g., Monday/Wednesday/Friday mornings)
If You Miss a Dose:
- Take it as soon as you remember if within 24 hours
- If more than 24 hours late, skip and resume regular schedule
- Don't double up doses
- Contact your doctor if you miss multiple doses
Understanding Side Effects and When to Get Help
Managing Common Side Effects:
- Injection site reactions: Rotate sites, use ice before injection
- Headaches: Usually improve after 1-2 weeks
- Mood changes: Often stabilize as body adjusts
- Acne: May need topical treatments
When to Call Your Doctor:
- Signs of blood clots (leg pain, chest pain, shortness of breath)
- Severe headaches or vision changes
- Significant mood changes or depression
- Breast enlargement or tenderness
- Signs of allergic reaction
⚠️ Emergency Symptoms - Seek Immediate Care:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Difficulty breathing
- Sudden severe headache
- One-sided weakness or numbness
- Severe allergic reaction symptoms
Making Lifestyle Changes to Boost Results
Diet Optimization:
- Maintain healthy body weight to optimize hormone levels
- Adequate protein intake (0.8-1g per pound body weight)
- Include healthy fats for hormone production
- Limit alcohol consumption
Exercise Program:
- Resistance training 3-4 times per week
- Cardiovascular exercise for heart health
- Avoid overtraining which can suppress testosterone
Sleep and Stress:
- Aim for 7-9 hours quality sleep
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques
- Consider sleep study if you have sleep apnea
Supplement Support:
- Vitamin D3: 2000-5000 IU daily
- Zinc: 15-30mg daily
- Magnesium: 200-400mg daily
- Consider working with a nutritionist
Keep Up with Doctor Visits
Initial Monitoring:
- Blood work at 2-4 weeks after starting
- Symptom assessment and dose adjustment
- Blood pressure and physical exam
Ongoing Monitoring:
- Lab work every 3-6 months once stable
- Annual comprehensive metabolic panel
- Regular PSA testing for men over 40
- Fertility testing if trying to conceive
Communication:
- Keep a symptom diary
- Report any new medications to your doctor
- Don't adjust dose without medical supervision
- Ask questions about any concerns
Medical Disclaimer
HCG is FDA-approved for specific fertility indications and testosterone replacement therapy support. This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace consultation with healthcare providers. Use only under medical supervision with appropriate monitoring.