Structure · schematic
Peptide chain · Gonadotropin
Schematic representation of the amino acid chain — not a chemical structural formula. Each node represents one amino acid.
Research areas*
* Contexts in which the peptide has been scientifically studied — not assured or recommended effects.
Mechanism of action
- Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a glycoprotein hormone of two subunits (α and β), produced by the placenta during pregnancy.
- Its β-subunit resembles luteinising hormone (LH); HCG therefore binds to the LH receptor.
- In men it stimulates the Leydig cells of the testes to produce testosterone; in women it stimulates the ovaries (ovulation trigger).
- In fertility medicine it is used to mimic the body's own gonadotropic action.
Research status
- HCG is an established, approved reproductive-medicine drug (ovulation trigger, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, impaired spermatogenesis).
- Reviews describe its use within gonadotropin therapy and to preserve spermatogenesis during testosterone replacement therapy.
- The endocrinological evidence base is extensive.
- Use for "weight loss" (the HCG diet) is considered scientifically refuted.
Evidence level
Cited studies
Known risks
- 01In women: ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) possible
- 02Fluid retention, oedema
- 03Gynaecomastia in men possible via increased oestrogen
- 04Thromboembolism risk, especially with OHSS
- 05WADA ban in men; doping-law relevance
- 06Product quality cannot be verified from unapproved sources
Frequently asked questions
What is HCG?
Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a glycoprotein hormone of two subunits (α and β), produced by the placenta during pregnancy.
What type of peptide is HCG?
HCG belongs to the Gonadotropin class.
Is HCG legal in Germany?
HCG is prescription-only in Germany and may only be obtained with a medical prescription. It is additionally relevant under the German Doping Agent Quantity Ordinance (DmMV).
Where can I buy HCG?
Peptica sells nothing and names no sources. HCG is "prescription-only" in Germany; obtaining unapproved substances outside clinical studies is illegal and carries quality and safety risks.
Is HCG banned in sport (WADA)?
Yes. HCG is on the WADA Prohibited List and is therefore banned in competitive sport.
What are the known risks of HCG?
Documented risks include: In women: ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) possible; Fluid retention, oedema. This is not a complete safety assessment and not medical advice — see the risks section for the full list.
How well researched is HCG?
The evidence is classified as “clinically established”. 2 studies are cited on this page.
What is the molecular weight of HCG?
HCG has a molar mass of about 36700 Da, with a plasma half-life of ~24–36 hours.
Which peptides are related to HCG?
Closely related entries: Kisspeptin, Gonadorelin (GnRH). A direct side-by-side comparison is available via the compare function.
Related entries
Legal status
Germany
prescription-onlyAustria
prescription-onlySwitzerland
prescription-onlyEU
approved medicineUSA
prescription-onlyCanada
prescription-onlyLegal status varies by country and can change. This is not legal advice.
Sources & methodology
- 2 peer-reviewed studies cited, linked to PubMed where available.
- Molecular data verified against PubChem and primary literature.
- Editorial standard: no dosage guidance, no sources, evidence level stated explicitly.
Last editorially reviewed: 30 May 2026
Legal assessment
HCG is an approved reproductive-medicine drug and is prescription-only. In men it is on the WADA Prohibited List (S2, as it stimulates endogenous testosterone production) and is doping-relevant. Obtaining it without a medical prescription is illegal in Germany under § 48 AMG.
Important notice
This site is intended solely for factual, scientifically oriented information about peptides. It does not constitute medical advice, does not replace a consultation with a doctor and contains no recommendations for use in humans.
This site does not sell any substances and names no sources for unapproved substances. For medical questions, please consult qualified medical professionals.
Anzeige
Reserviert für sorgfältig ausgewählte Partner — Telemedizin, Diagnostik, legale topische Anwendungen.