HCG

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, is a vital compound used to maintain testicular function and hormone balance duringor after a cycle. HCG supports natural testosterone production, preserves fertility and helps prevent shutdown, making it an essential tool for complete endocrine health.

HCG – Harm Reduction Crib Sheet

Compound: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG)
Class: Luteinising Hormone (LH) Mimetic / Peptide Hormone
Administration: Subcutaneous (preferred) or Intramuscular injection

Dosage

• On-Cycle Support: 250–500 IU 2–3x per week
• Pre-PCT Protocol:
  • 500–1,000 IU every other day for 2–3 weeks before starting PCT
• Fertility Treatment (clinical): Often 1,500–5,000 IU 2–3x/week (under medical guidance)
• Not recommended: High-dose blasts (≥5,000 IU) due to desensitisation risk

Half-Life

• ~36–48 hours
• Dosing frequency: 2–3 times per week for stability

Benefits

• Mimics LH → stimulates Leydig cells to produce endogenous testosterone
• Preserves testicular size and function during AAS cycles
• Supports spermatogenesis and fertility (especially when stacked with FSH analogues or Clomid)
• Used pre-PCT to restore testicular responsiveness before SERM therapy

Side Effects

• Oestrogenic: Increased testosterone → aromatisation → possible water retention, gynecomastia
• Desensitisation: Leydig cell resistance with excessive/high-frequency dosing
• Mood changes: Due to hormonal fluctuations
• Injection site irritation (rare)

Risks

• Gynecomastia: Secondary to increased oestrogen; AI may be needed in sensitive users
• Testicular desensitisation: From prolonged or high-dose use
• Hormonal imbalance: If used incorrectly or without monitoring
• Multiple births (in fertility treatment): Only a concern in clinical female use

Risk Mitigation

• Bloodwork: Monitor TT/FT, LH, FSH, oestradiol pre-, mid-, and post-use
• Moderate dosing: Avoid high-dose blasts; stay within 250–500 IU per dose
• AI support: Optional, if signs of high oestrogen appear (use based on bloods, not symptoms alone)
• Injection hygiene: Rotate sites, sterile technique (subcutaneous preferred)

Use Cases in Bodybuilding

• On-cycle testicular support: Prevents atrophy, maintains function
• Pre-PCT “kickstart”: Reactivates testicular testosterone production before SERMs are introduced
• Fertility restoration: Often stacked with Clomid and/or HMG in recovery protocols
• Bridging: Short-term use between cycles to maintain testicular volume