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Human Chorionic Gonadotropin

hCG

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Meta Information

ID:hcg
Name:Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
Schema Version:1.5

Alternate Names

  • hCG

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:
50
High Cost:
100
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Prescription cost for vials and supplies; typically not covered by insurance for TRT.

Summary

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin is a hormone that mimics the action of Luteinizing Hormone (LH). In men, it is primarily used alongside Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) to stimulate the testes, thereby preventing testicular atrophy and maintaining fertility. Its relevance to healthspan is indirect, serving as a supportive therapy to mitigate side effects of another intervention rather than being a primary longevity agent itself.

Purpose

Mimics LH to maintain testicular function during testosterone therapy.

Card Summary

A hormone that mimics Luteinizing Hormone (LH), primarily used alongside Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) to maintain testicular function, fertility, and endogenous testosterone production.

Drug Class

gonadotropin

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:
2.5
Justification:
Supportive role in TRT protocols, not a direct longevity agent itself.

Evidence

Grade:
A
Score:
8.5
Justification:
Robust human trial data for maintaining testicular function during androgen therapy.

Safety

Score:
6.5
Justification:
Prescription hormone requiring medical supervision; can alter estrogen and other hormone levels.

Flags

  • Requires a prescription and medical supervision.
  • Can significantly increase estradiol levels, potentially causing gynecomastia.
  • Long-term use may desensitize Leydig cells to LH.
  • Contraindicated in individuals with certain hormone-sensitive cancers (e.g., prostate cancer).
  • Use for weight loss (the 'hCG diet') is ineffective and widely discredited.

Verdict

Supportive therapy for TRT; not a standalone longevity intervention.

Created

2026-04-27T00:56:07.014133Z

Model

Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)

Delivery

Route:
subcutaneous_injection
Scope:
  • systemic

Indication

Focus:
healthspan
Description:
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin is a hormone that mimics the action of Luteinizing Hormone (LH). In men, it is primarily used alongside Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) to stimulate the testes, the...

Typical Protocol

  • Typically used adjunctively with TRT at 250-500 IU injected subcutaneously 2-3 times per week.