Human chorionic gonadotropin
hCG
Labeled drug exists Glycoprotein hormone
What it is
hCG is a placental glycoprotein that activates the LH receptor. Pharmaceutical hCG is a regulated drug. Forums treat it like a research peptide — it is not.
Benefits in plain language
What researchers and reference users usually mean when they talk about this compound. These are study themes and common claims — not a promise that it will do this in you.
- Human chorionic gonadotropin mimics LH. In men it can tell the testes to make testosterone and support fertility signals.
- On-label it is a fertility / diagnostic drug. Off-label bodybuilding use is common and still a drug conversation.
- Women’s fertility protocols are a different medical playbook.
- Not a peptide “for abs.” It is a pregnancy hormone used as an LH stand-in.
If a branded, FDA-approved product exists, that label is the only dose that is actually authorized. Research-chemical vials are a different object.
Mechanism of action
In testes, LH-receptor agonism stimulates Leydig-cell testosterone. In ovaries it mimics the LH surge. That is endocrine pharmacology.
Possible side effects / caveats
Gynecomastia risk via aromatization, injection-site reactions, ovarian hyperstimulation in fertility use. Blood work belongs in any legitimate medical use.
Protocol ranges
| Source tier | Amount | Frequency / duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labeled / clinic protocols | Indication-specific IU amounts | Varies widely | Use the product insert and a licensed clinician |
| Forum figures | Hundreds to thousands of IU | Several times weekly talk | Not a reference-site protocol |