- Active substance: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
- Manufacturer: Beligas
- Unit: 1vials (9999.99IU) HCGActive ingredient: Human Chorionic GonadotropinAlso known as: HCG, Gonado, Ovidrel, Pregnyl, PubergenActive half-life 64 hours
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a potent polypeptide hormone produced during pregnancy. It is primarily utilized for therapeutic purposes, including treatment for cryptorchidism, female infertility, hypogonadism (low testosterone), and weight loss.
Additionally, HCG is frequently used by many anabolic steroid users as a supplementary treatment either during or after steroid cycles. When used concurrently with anabolic steroids, its purpose is to counteract the hormonal suppression caused by the steroids. When used post-cycle, HCG helps to facilitate a more efficient recovery process.
Effects of Gonadotropin:
Among its notable roles in contemporary use, HCG has gained traction as a dietary aid, primarily through the HCG diet. However, its effectiveness remains a contentious issue. The American Medical Association and the American Society of Bariatric Physicians have criticized the HCG diet, asserting that weight loss is primarily due to the significant caloric restriction—often limited to 500 calories per day—that accompanies the diet plan. Studies show HCG has no thyroid-stimulating effects, beta-2 stimulant properties, appetite suppression, or functions related to thermogensis or fat burning. Though some physicians report success with the HCG diet, many criticize the long-term healthiness of such severe caloric restriction. Currently, there is no substantial evidence that HCG itself contributes to weight loss beyond what would occur with the same caloric deficit without its use. The debate regarding the diet likely will persist for many years to come.
For anabolic steroid users, HCG's effects can be categorized into two main areas: during a cycle and post-cycle therapy (PCT). Anabolic steroid use usually leads to a suppression of natural testosterone production, with the extent of suppression varying based on the steroids and dosages used. Once steroid use is halted, testosterone production can resume naturally, though this process is often slow, resulting in low testosterone levels and related symptoms, which can lead to muscle loss as cortisol rises in testosterone's absence. Most steroid users implement a PCT strategy to accelerate recovery, enhancing testosterone levels to ensure proper bodily function as they normalize.
Various PCT strategies are available, typically involving medications like SERM’s such as Nolvadex (Tamoxifen Citrate) and/or Clomid (Clomiphene Citrate). Some users find that starting with HCG prior to SERM therapy improves the recovery outcome, as HCG mimics luteinizing hormone (LH) and prepares the body for subsequent SERM treatment, resulting in a more effective recovery.
The secondary advantageous role of HCG in the context of anabolic steroid use occurs during active cycles. Anabolic steroid use can lead to testicular atrophy due to suppressed testosterone production. Supplementing with HCG can help maintain testicular size, which, while mainly cosmetic, could potentially ease recovery issues once steroid use concludes. However, there is a risk of the body becoming reliant on HCG for LH, which can pose complications. For patients with low testosterone, this dependency is manageable; however, non-low testosterone users must use HCG cautiously and monitor its use closely to prevent LH dependency. Misuse of HCG during steroid cycles can cause more harm than the steroids themselves if not monitored responsibly. While HCG use can facilitate smoother recovery, it requires careful regulation.
Side effects:For anabolic steroid users, particularly those utilizing HCG during cycles, the usual dose is 250 IU every 4-5 days, which is sufficient to achieve desired results without exceeding levels that could jeopardize natural testosterone recovery.
In terms of PCT deployment, there are two effective methods. The first involves administering 1,500-4,000 IU every 3-4 days for 2-3 weeks, after which SERM therapy commences. The second, potentially more effective method, is daily doses of 500-1,000 IU for 10 consecutive days, after which SERM therapy begins.
Timing is crucial when using HCG during PCT. If your steroid cycle ends with larger ester-based steroids, begin HCG therapy 10 days after the final injection, followed by SERM therapy once HCG treatment concludes. Conversely, if finishing with small ester-based steroids, initiate HCG therapy three days after the last injection, then follow with SERM therapy once HCG use is complete.