Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a glycoprotein hormone naturally produced by the placenta during pregnancy. Structurally, it is composed of an alpha subunit identical to that of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and a distinct beta subunit that confers its specific biological activity. In clinical settings, HCG is used as a medication for various indications, primarily related to fertility and hormonal balance. The HCG used therapeutically is either derived from the urine of pregnant women or produced recombinantly. Its primary action mimics that of LH, stimulating the production of gonadal steroid hormones.
Deep dive
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Known interactions
Category rule: peptide × hormone
Note
Injectable peptides plus hormones can have overlapping or compounding effects that aren't always well characterized.
Track bloodwork with a provider; don't assume combinations are neutral.
Compound-pair rule
Synergy
HCG maintains intratesticular testosterone and testicular size during exogenous testosterone use.
Typical protocol: 250–500 IU HCG 2–3× weekly alongside TRT.
Frequently asked
Sources referenced
- MedlinePlus
- DrugBank
- PubChem
- FDA label
- Cochrane Library
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS)
- Mayo Clinic
Stackwise compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician.
Related compounds
Others in the hormone category or studied for the same goals.
