HCG Research Guide

Full name: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin

A glycoprotein hormone that mimics luteinizing hormone (LH) to maintain testicular function during TRT. Preserves fertility, intratesticular testosterone production, and prevents testicular atrophy.

How HCG Works

Binds LH/CG receptors on Leydig cells, stimulating intratesticular testosterone synthesis and maintaining spermatogenesis via local paracrine signaling independent of pituitary FSH/LH.

Dosing Protocol

• Typical dose: 500-1000 IU
• Frequency: 2-3x per week
• Duration: Ongoing with TRT
• Route: Subcutaneous injection

Reported Benefits

• Preserved testicular size
• Maintained fertility on TRT
• Intratesticular testosterone
• Improved mood (neurosteroid support)
• Pregnenolone/DHEA maintenance

Potential Side Effects

• Estradiol elevation
• Water retention
• Gynecomastia risk
• Desensitization at high doses
• Injection site discomfort

Research Citations

1. HCG co-administration during TRT (2019) - Maintained intratesticular testosterone at 25% of baseline vs <5% in TRT-only group, preserving spermatogenesis.
2. HCG for male fertility preservation (2021) - Combined HCG+FSH recovered sperm parameters in 67% of TRT-induced azoospermic men within 6 months.

Related Hormone Replacement Compounds

• Gonadorelin - Full Profile
• Enclomiphene - Full Profile
• DHEA - Full Profile
• Pregnenolone - Full Profile
• Liothyronine (T3) - Full Profile
• Anastrozole - Full Profile

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