What is HCG?
HCG, or Gonadotropin, is a natural polypeptide hormone widely used by bodybuilders to improve the effects of post-cycle therapy. It can help restore hormone balance, boost testosterone production, and mitigate some of the side effects.
Some athletes prefer adding HCG earlier on to prevent testicular atrophy. Although it’s not a common side effect, and it can be dealt with after the steroid cycle, HCG administration can help to avoid it.
HCG Benefits
HCG will be useful in:
- Increasing natural testosterone: HCG can mimic the actions of the luteinizing hormone, stimulating Leydig’s cells and boosting testosterone production up to 60%;
- Reducing cortisol levels: after the cycle, the body can produce more cortisol, leading to muscle breakdown. Adding HCG will help prevent losing muscle mass due to increased testosterone levels;
- Avoiding testicular atrophy: HCG can aid in the prevention of testicular atrophy or in correcting it after the steroid cycle;
- Improved libido: athletes on HCG report improvements in erection time and sexual functions, and increased sperm count.
Overall, HCG administration is a great addition to a PCT protocol. You’ll restore natural testosterone levels and improve your reproductive health due to LH stimulation.
HCG Side Effects
As with all drugs, HCG can cause some unwanted side effects, for example:
- Abdominal pain;
- Nausea;
- Dizziness;
- Skin rash;
- Mood swings;
- Water retention;
- Changes in blood thickness.
After the HCG injection, you can feel some discomfort or swelling at the injection site. It’s a common side effect of hormone administration.
Some reports mention that misuse of HCG can lead to Leydig’s cells desensitization to luteinizing hormone’s action. It’s better to approach HCG with caution and not exceed the recommended dosage.
HCG Dosage
The recommended HCG dosage for PCT can vary between 2000 and 3000 IU/week, with an injection frequency of 2 to 3 times per week. Gonadotropin may be used during the off-cycle gap before taking Clomiphene or Nolvadex.
If you’d like to use HCG while you’re on a steroid cycle, it’s better to stick to 200–500 IU/week with an injection frequency of two times per week. It will help you avoid testicular atrophy, yet won’t mess with the cycle.
How to Take HCG
HCG should be injected intramuscularly for PCT. Subcutaneous injections are preferred when HCG is added during an anabolic steroid cycle.
When to Inject it |
2–3 times/week during an off-cycle gap, or 2 times/week on a cycle |
Dosage Instructions |
2000–3000 IU/week during an off-cycle gap, or 200–500 IU/week on a cycle |
Half-life |
1–2 days |
Food Interaction |
No food interactions have been reported |
Alcohol Interaction |
Limit alcohol consumption |
Drugs Interaction |
HCG can’t be taken with Ganivelix |
It’s important to note that HCG peak concentration differs depending on the administration method. If you’ve chosen to inject HCG subcutaneously, peak concentration will occur after 15–20 hours. However, after an intramuscular injection, peak concentration will be achieved after 5–6 hours.
Best Stacks with HCG
HCG can be stacked with Nolvadex or Clomid for post-cycle therapy:
Duration |
HCG, IU/week |
Nolvadex, mg/day |
Clomid, mg/day |
Off-cycle gap, 1–3 weeks |
2000-3000 |
― |
― |
PCT, 4–5 weeks |
― |
40 |
50 |
PCT, 6–7 weeks |
― |
20 |
25 |
Common Questions About HCG
Does HCG Increase Testosterone?
Yes, HCG can increase natural testosterone levels through Leydig’s cell stimulation. That’s why this hormone is one of the most popular PCT compounds.
Does HCG Cause Nausea?
Nausea is one of the HCG side effects. The hormone can cause some gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Is HCG a Steroid?
HCG isn’t considered a steroid; it’s a natural polypeptide hormone produced by our bodies. There’s no point in running HCG solo, as it is effective only as a PCT compound. However, it can help you restore testosterone levels after the steroid cycle and avoid unwanted side effects.
Reviews
Only registered users can write reviews. Please, log in or register
-
James
06.03.22
must have
-
Bill
10.02.22
all good
Good packaging and fast delivery.A real local source that has been around for years.Test E ,tren E and HCG were all tested and all are authentic. Prices are also ok.Not too cheap(that should make everybody cautious) and not too expensive.You have to pay for real stuff.
-
Matthew
26.01.22
all good
Good source with honest info and solid reputation.HCG is a very important drug in my book.Always buy from them and never had a problem with quality or delivery.
-
Anthony
20.11.21
great
I always use HCG on cycle.I think its the only effective thing to keep your testes size normal.500 IU/3 times a week always does a job for me.
I use HCG for my PCT a lot. Boosts the testosterone production very quick.Its a must to have HCG handy, especially if you find a good supplier.