Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)
FDA approvedHuman chorionic gonadotropin (Novarel, Pregnyl, Ovidrel) is a glycoprotein pregnancy hormone that is FDA approved to trigger ovulation in fertility treatment, for some cases of undescended testicles, and for hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in men.
At a glance
- Where it acts
- Sexual & reproductive
- Regulatory status
- FDA approvedApproved by the U.S. FDA for at least one medical use.
Mechanism of Action
hCG acts on the same receptor as luteinizing hormone. In women it triggers final egg maturation and ovulation; in men it stimulates the testes to produce testosterone and support sperm production.
Typical Dosage (Research)
Prescription-only medicine. Dosing is set by a physician according to the FDA-approved label and the condition being treated.
Side Effects & Risks
Headache, irritability, fatigue, injection site pain, and breast tenderness or enlargement.
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, multiple pregnancy and blood clots in women; early puberty in boys. Not approved for weight loss; the FDA has warned against hCG diet products.
Who Uses Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)
Women undergoing ovulation induction or IVF; boys with prepubertal cryptorchidism; men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.