HCG
Mechanism of action
What HCG does in the body — step by step.
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).
Research status
How far along is the evidence?
Known risks
Without human data, safety statements are limited. What is known:
Cited studies
Chronological — links lead to the source.
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.
What is HCG used for?+
In research, HCG has primarily been investigated in the context of: Libido. These are research findings (evidence: clinically established), not proven benefits in humans and not a usage recommendation.
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).
Is HCG FDA-approved / legal in the US?+
HCG is a prescription, FDA-approved medication in the US.
Is HCG legal in Canada?+
HCG is a prescription medication authorized by Health Canada.
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.
What is the dosage of HCG?+
Peptica publishes no dosing. HCG is a prescription medicine — any dosing is determined individually by a physician. This is not medical advice.
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.
Dossier
Legal · Structure · Sources.
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.
Legal status varies by country and can change. This is not legal advice.
Methodology: Peptica compiles publicly available studies and regulatory information and assigns each statement an evidence level. Not medical advice. No warranty.