The prescription gonadotropin used alongside TRT to preserve testicular size and fertility — and to restart natural production after a cycle.
Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a hormone naturally produced by the placenta during pregnancy. Pharmaceutically, it mimics luteinizing hormone (LH) at its receptor — which means it can directly stimulate the testes to produce testosterone and support spermatogenesis, even when the pituitary is shut down from TRT.
HCG is prescription-only. Its primary legitimate uses are: adjunct to TRT (preserving testicular size / fertility), restoring HPG function after anabolic cycles, and fertility treatment in both men and women.
FDA approved. Prescription only. WADA prohibited (S2 — Peptide Hormones).
Binds and activates the LH receptor on testicular Leydig cells — triggering testosterone synthesis and spermatogenesis support, bypassing the suppressed HPG axis.
On TRT without HCG, testicular atrophy is common. HCG keeps Leydig cells stimulated and testicular volume intact.
Maintains intratesticular testosterone levels needed for spermatogenesis — even when exogenous TRT suppresses FSH. Fertility can be preserved throughout long-term TRT with appropriate HCG use.
| Use case | Evidence |
|---|---|
| TRT fertility preservation | Coviello et al.: low-dose HCG during TRT maintains spermatogenesis |
| Testicular volume | Direct correlation with dose; atrophy reverses when HCG added |
| Post-cycle restart | Used with SERMs (clomid, enclomiphene) to restart HPG axis after anabolic steroid use |
| Male hypogonadism | Alternative to TRT when fertility must be preserved (hypogonadotropic hypogonadism) |
| Mood / well-being on TRT | Many TRT patients report subtle improvements with HCG addition (possibly pregnenolone-mediated) |
Build your protocol, log every dose, monitor your body's response, and get reminders so you never miss a dose.
Start Tracking FreePCT is complex and benefits significantly from provider supervision.
Pharmaceutical HCG comes as a lyophilized powder with a dedicated diluent (or is supplied separately with bacteriostatic water).
5000 IU vial + 3 mL BAC water = 1667 IU/mL
| Dose | Volume | Syringe Units |
|---|---|---|
| 250 IU | 0.15 mL | 15 units |
| 500 IU | 0.30 mL | 30 units |
| 1000 IU | 0.60 mL | 60 units |
Use our free peptide calculator to figure out your reconstitution volume, draw amount, and syringe units.
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HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) is a prescription medication. StackTrax does not sell, prescribe, or facilitate purchase of prescription drugs.
Find a clinician who can order baseline lab work, screen for contraindications, monitor your response, and adjust dosing over time. Options to consider:
Before starting, you’ll typically want:
Avoid sources that offer prescription medications without labs, medical history, or licensed-provider oversight. If a telehealth service promises a prescription after a 5-minute questionnaire, that’s a red flag.
Build your protocol, log every dose, monitor your body's response, and get reminders so you never miss a dose.
Start Tracking FreeDisclaimer: This guide is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The compounds discussed are not FDA approved for human use. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or peptide protocol. StackTrax does not sell peptides or supplements directly — purchase links go to third-party vendors. StackTrax is not responsible for the products, quality, or business practices of any third-party vendor. This page contains affiliate links — StackTrax may earn a commission on purchases at no extra cost to you.
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StackTrax guides cover peptides and compounds that are not FDA-approved for the uses discussed. The dosing, reconstitution, and safety information is compiled from published research and community protocols for educational purposes only.
Before using any compound mentioned here, consult a qualified healthcare provider. StackTrax does not sell, prescribe, or recommend these substances for personal use.
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