HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)
/ Glycoprotein heterodimer — α-subunit (common to LH, FSH, TSH) plus hCG-specific β-subunitALIAS · HCG · Pregnyl (trade) · Novarel (trade) · Ovidrel (recombinant) · Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
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Tier 1. Decades-old approved product across multiple indications: ovulation induction in IVF, treatment of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in men, prepubertal cryptorchidism, and fertility preservation during gonadotoxic therapy. Multiple FDA-approved formulations including urinary-derived (Pregnyl, Novarel) and recombinant (Ovidrel).
hCG binds the LH/CG receptor (LHCGR) on Leydig cells and ovarian theca/granulosa cells with biological activity similar to luteinizing hormone but a substantially longer plasma half-life. In men, hCG drives Leydig cell testosterone production while preserving spermatogenesis (in contrast to exogenous testosterone, which suppresses it). In women, hCG triggers ovulation as the LH-surge mimic in IVF and supports the corpus luteum in early pregnancy.
Tier 1. Long-standing approved use across multiple endocrine and fertility indications.
Well-characterised across decades of clinical use. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is the main acute concern in female fertility use. In men, gynecomastia from peripheral testosterone-to-estradiol aromatisation is the most common dose-limiting adverse event.
Regulatory status
- FDA status:
- FDA-approved
Vendor-sold 'HCG' for non-medical purposes (e.g. weight-loss protocols associated with the Simeons regimen) lacks any evidence base — the HCG diet has been examined in multiple controlled trials and produces no weight-loss benefit beyond the very-low-calorie diet itself.