Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.
| hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) | Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Hormones | Hormones |
| Standard Dose | Research indicates 250-500 IU administered subcutaneously 2-3 times per week as a TRT adjunct for fertility and testicular maintenance. | — |
| Timing | Administer on non-testosterone injection days if using twice-weekly TRT split. Consistent schedule (e.g., Tuesday/Saturday). Refrigerate reconstituted solution; use within 30-60 days. | — |
| Cycle Duration | Ongoing for as long as TRT continues and fertility preservation is desired. Can be used in 4-8 week pre-PCT bursts to 'prime' testicular recovery. | — |
| Evidence Level | strong_human | Strong |
hCG mimics luteinizing hormone (LH) by binding the LH/CG receptor on testicular Leydig cells, activating the cAMP-PKA signaling cascade that upregulates steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and CYP11A1, driving cholesterol conversion to pregnenolone and downstream testosterone synthesis. By maintaining intratesticular testosterone (ITT) levels during exogenous testosterone administration, hCG preserves Leydig cell function, spermatogenesis, testicular volume, and the production of neurosteroids (pregnenolone, DHEA) and estradiol within the testes.
Research indicates 250-500 IU administered subcutaneously 2-3 times per week as a TRT adjunct for fertility and testicular maintenance.
Administer on non-testosterone injection days if using twice-weekly TRT split. Consistent schedule (e.g., Tuesday/Saturday). Refrigerate reconstituted solution; use within 30-60 days.
Ongoing for as long as TRT continues and fertility preservation is desired. Can be used in 4-8 week pre-PCT bursts to 'prime' testicular recovery.
LH receptor agonist that stimulates intratesticular testosterone production and can help preserve fertility signaling in selected male hormone protocols.
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