Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
Pronunciation: (hyoo-man kor-ee-ON-ik go-nad-oh-TROH-pin).
- Generic name
- Human chorionic gonadotropin
- Brand names
- Ovidrel, Ovitrelle, HUCOG, Lupi-HCG, Novarel, Pregnyl
- Drug class
- Endocrine & Hormonal
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country: India
Australia: · Full directory
What Human chorionic gonadotropin is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how Human chorionic gonadotropin works
hCG is a glycoprotein hormone structurally similar to luteinizing hormone (LH). It binds to LH/hCG receptors on ovarian theca and granulosa cells in females, stimulating ovulation and corpus luteum formation. In males, it stimulates Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone, supporting spermatogenesis. hCG has not been demonstrated to be effective adjunctive therapy in the treatment of obesity, per FDA labeling — it is not an approved or effective weight-loss treatment. (1) (2)
What Human chorionic gonadotropin is used for
Female infertility (ovulation induction)
Female infertility (ovulation induction) (2)
Male hypogonadotropic (secondary) hypogonadism
The FDA-approved indication is specifically "selected cases of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (hypogonadism secondary to a pituitary deficiency) in males" — i.e., hypogonadism caused by insufficient pituitary signaling, not hypogonadism from primary testicular failure. Used to stimulate testosterone production and support spermatogenesis. (2)
Prepubertal cryptorchidism (undescended testicles)
FDA-approved for children aged 4-9 years whose undescended testicles are not due to anatomic obstruction; may also be used to help predict whether future surgical intervention will be needed. (2)
Before taking Human chorionic gonadotropin
Do not take / not appropriate for
- Hypersensitivity to hCG, hormone-dependent tumors (e.g., prostate, certain ovarian cancers), precocious puberty, uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal dysfunction, and pregnancy (except for indicated uses). (Contraindication) (2)
Tell your clinician about
(2)How to take Human chorionic gonadotropin
- General Instructions: Use hCG exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not increase or decrease your dose without medical advice.. Adult Dosing: Typical dosing for ovulation induction in women: 5,000 to 10,000 IU as a single intramuscular injection after follicle maturation. For male hypogonadotropic (secondary) hypogonadism: 500 to 4,000 IU two to three times per week, individualized by the prescriber.. Pediatric Dosing: Dosing in children is individualized based on indication and weight. Only use under specialist supervision.. Administration: hCG is given by injection, either under the skin (subcutaneous) or into a muscle (intramuscular). Your healthcare provider may teach you how to self-inject at home.. When To Stop: If you develop severe side effects or an allergic reaction, seek medical attention promptly — let the clinician you see advise on whether to continue or stop hCG. Do not stop abruptly without consulting your provider.. Storage: Storage depends on the product's state — the unopened (unreconstituted) powder is stored at room temperature (20–25°C/68–77°F, brief excursions to 15–30°C are permitted); once mixed with the diluent (reconstituted) for injection, the solution must be refrigerated at 2–8°C/36–46°F and used within 30 days. Do not freeze. Protect from light. Discard any unused reconstituted solution after the recommended period.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (2)
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. Do not take an extra dose to make up for a missed one.
Overdose
If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms may include severe headache, restlessness, fatigue, or signs of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Supportive care is the mainstay of treatment. (2)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Headache
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Irritability
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Restlessness
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Edema
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Gynecomastia
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Thromboembolism
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Serious warnings
Not for weight loss — serious
Symptoms: Not for weight loss: hCG is not FDA-approved for weight loss, and the FDA-approved product labeling explicitly states hCG "has not been demonstrated to be effective adjunctive therapy in the treatment of obesity." The FDA has separately warned that over-the-counter "HCG diet" drops, sprays, and pellets marketed for weight loss are illegal and unsafe; any weight loss seen with such products comes from the very-low-calorie diet (typically 500-800 kcal/day) they are paired with, not from the hormone, and that degree of calorie restriction carries its own risks (gallstones, heart arrhythmias, electrolyte imbalance). Only use prescription hCG for the fertility/endocrine indication your clinician has prescribed it for.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in women, a medical event distinct from uncomplicated ovarian enlargement that can progress rapidly and become serious — serious
Symptoms: Risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in women, a medical event distinct from uncomplicated ovarian enlargement that can progress rapidly and become serious. Anaphylaxis has been reported with urinary-derived hCG products. May increase risk of blood clots. Not for use in pregnancy (except as directed for fertility). May cause multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.). Monitor for allergic reactions and injection site complications.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Contraindications recorded in the clinician database, refined against FDA labeling — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database, refined against FDA labeling: hypersensitivity/prior allergic reaction to hCG, prostatic carcinoma or other androgen-dependent neoplasm, precocious puberty, and pregnancy (potential fetal harm), plus the DB's broader caution around other hormone-dependent tumors, uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal dysfunction. Precautions: use with caution in patients with a history of thrombosis, asthma, epilepsy, migraine, or cardiovascular or renal disease.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | hCG may interact with other fertility drugs, anticoagulants (blood thinners), corticosteroids, and some hormone therapies. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking. | (1) |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
Contraindicated in pregnancy because of potential fetal harm, except when a clinician is specifically using hCG as part of fertility treatment or to support early pregnancy — this is a deliberate, monitored clinical decision, not something to start or continue on your own. Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you know or suspect you are pregnant while using hCG. (2)
Breastfeeding
Ask your healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation before or while breastfeeding. (2)
Children
Frequency: Not recommended for pediatric use except for the FDA-approved prepubertal cryptorchidism indication (ages 4-9), which uses its own specialist-directed dosing regimen distinct from adult dosing.. Weight Based: Not established for general pediatric use.. Max Daily Dose: Not applicable outside the cryptorchidism regimen.. Max Single Dose: Not applicable outside the cryptorchidism regimen.. Age Restrictions: Safety not established in children outside the approved cryptorchidism indication. (2)
Renal_impairment
Use with caution in patients with renal or cardiovascular disease per the clinician database, and discuss any organ-function concerns with the prescribing clinician. (2)
Hepatic_impairment
Use with caution in patients with renal or cardiovascular disease per the clinician database, and discuss any organ-function concerns with the prescribing clinician. (2)
Monitoring
(2)Storage
Unreconstituted (unopened powder): store at room temperature (20–25°C/68–77°F); brief excursions to 15–30°C are permitted. Reconstituted (mixed, ready-to-inject) solution: refrigerate at 2–8°C/36–46°F and use within 30 days. Do not freeze. Protect from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Female infertility (ovulation induction)
Dose summary: Ovulation induction: 5,000-10,000 USP Units by a single IM or SC injection one day following the last dose of menotropins. Male hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: regimens ranging from 500-1,000 units three times weekly (tapering over weeks) up to 4,000 units three times weekly for 6-9 months (then reduced). Prepubertal cryptorchidism (ages 4-9): several accepted regimens using 500-5,000 units over 3-6 weeks, individualized by the pediatric specialist — a distinct, lower-dose regimen from the adult indications, not a scaled-down adult dose.
Renal context: Renal-impairment-specific dose adjustment is not established in the clinician-authored database content or the FDA label reviewed; use with caution in patients with renal disease per the clinician database, individualized by the prescribing clinician. (1) (2)
Frequently asked questions
What is hCG used for?
hCG has three FDA-approved uses: triggering ovulation in women being treated for infertility, treating selected cases of hypogonadotropic (pituitary-related) hypogonadism in men to stimulate testosterone production and sperm development, and treating prepubertal cryptorchidism (undescended testicles) in boys aged 4-9. It is not approved or effective for weight loss.
How is hCG administered?
hCG is given as an injection, either under the skin (subcutaneous) or into a muscle (intramuscular). Your healthcare provider will show you the correct technique.
What are the most common side effects of hCG?
Common side effects include headache, tiredness, mild abdominal pain, mood changes, and injection site reactions.
Can hCG cause multiple pregnancies?
Yes, hCG increases the chance of multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.) when used for fertility treatment.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Contact your healthcare provider for advice. Do not take an extra dose to make up for a missed one.
Is hCG safe during pregnancy?
hCG should not be used during pregnancy unless specifically prescribed for certain medical conditions. Inform your doctor if you become pregnant while using hCG.
How should I store hCG?
It depends on the product's state: store the unopened (unreconstituted) powder at room temperature (20–25°C/68–77°F); once it has been mixed with the diluent for injection, refrigerate the solution at 2–8°C/36–46°F and use it within 30 days. Do not freeze, and protect from light.
Is hCG approved or effective for weight loss?
No. hCG is not FDA-approved for weight loss, and the FDA-approved prescribing information explicitly states it has not been shown to be effective adjunctive therapy for treating obesity. The FDA has also warned that over-the-counter "HCG diet" products sold for weight loss are illegal and unsafe. Any weight loss associated with such regimens comes from the very-low-calorie diet used alongside them, not from hCG itself, and that level of calorie restriction carries its own health risks. Use hCG only for the specific fertility or endocrine condition your clinician has prescribed it for.
What happens if I take too much Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)?
Taking too much Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) can lead to symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in women. In men, it may cause gynecomastia or acne. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate emergency medical attention. Prompt medical evaluation is crucial to manage potential complications and ensure your safety.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)?
While there isn't a direct contraindication for alcohol consumption with Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), it's generally advisable to limit or avoid alcohol. Alcohol can potentially exacerbate some side effects, such as headache or nausea. Furthermore, alcohol can interfere with overall hormonal balance and treatment efficacy. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice regarding alcohol intake during your hCG therapy.
Is Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) safe during pregnancy?
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) has a specific role in supporting early pregnancy, but its safety for use during established pregnancy varies depending on the indication. It is crucial to consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant while on hCG therapy. Your healthcare provider will assess the risks and benefits to determine the most appropriate course of action for your individual situation.
What is the mechanism of action of Human chorionic gonadotropin?
hCG is a glycoprotein hormone structurally similar to luteinizing hormone (LH). It binds to LH/hCG receptors on ovarian theca and granulosa cells in females, stimulating ovulation and corpus luteum formation. In males, it stimulates Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone, supporting spermatogenesis. hCG has not been demonstrated to be effective adjunctive therapy in the treatment of obesity, per FDA labeling — it is not an approved or effective weight-loss treatment. (1) (2)
What is the generic name of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin?
The generic name is Human chorionic gonadotropin. It is sold under brand names including Ovidrel, Ovitrelle, HUCOG, Lupi-HCG, Novarel, Pregnyl.
What class of drug is Human chorionic gonadotropin?
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin is classed as: Endocrine & Hormonal.
References
- Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) – MedGuideGlobal medicine recordMedGuideGlobal Clinician Record · Internal (not country-specific) · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 1
- NOVAREL (chorionic gonadotropin) for injection – prescribing informationU.S. National Library of Medicine DailyMed · United States · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 2
- E-HCG FAT RELEASE SYSTEM (ARGININE, ACETYLCARNITINE, L-, ORNITHINE AND HUMAN CHORIONIC GONADOTROPIN) LIQUID [ANUMED INTERNATIONAL LLC] — US prescribing information (DailyMed SPL)U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 3
- Human chorionic gonadotropin — RxNorm normalized drug concept (RXCUI 340705)U.S. National Library of Medicine (RxNorm) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 4
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient Human chorionic gonadotropin names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.
Priority countries
India
- Hucog / Hucog HP2000 IU, 5000 IU · Bharat Serums & Vaccines Ltd
- Lupi HCG / Lupi HCG HP2000 IU, 5000 IU, 10000 IU · Lupin
- Fertigyn HP10000 IU · Sun Pharma
- Eema HP / Eema HP AQ5000 IU · Corona Remedies Pvt Ltd
- Materna HCG5000 IU · Emcure Pharmaceuticals Ltd