- Active substance: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
- Manufacturer: Beligas
- Unit: 1vials (5000.00IU) HCGActive Substance: Human Chorionic GonadotropinAlternate Names: HCG, Gonado, Ovidrel, Pregnyl, PubergenActive Half-Life 64 hours
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a potent polypeptide hormone present in pregnant females. It is commonly used in medical treatments for conditions such as cryptorchidism, female infertility, hypogonadism (low testosterone), and weight loss.
Many users of anabolic steroids also utilize HCG as a supplementary treatment during or after steroid use. When using anabolic steroids, HCG supplementation aims to counteract the hormonal suppression that occurs, while post-steroid use, it focuses on facilitating a more efficient recovery.
Effects of Gonadotropin:
A notable application of HCG today is as a weight-loss aid, although the effectiveness of the HCG diet has been a subject of debate. The American Medical Association and the American Society of Bariatric Physicians have criticized the HCG diet, stating that weight loss results primarily from the extreme calorie restriction, often limited to just 500 calories a day. HCG does not stimulate thyroid function, act as a beta-2 stimulant, suppress appetite, or demonstrate thermogenic activity. Despite claims of success with the HCG diet, many medical professionals argue that the diet's severe caloric restrictions can be harmful in the long term, and there is no conclusive evidence that HCG itself contributes to weight loss beyond the starvation effect. The controversy surrounding this diet is expected to persist for years.
HCG's effects on anabolic steroid users can be categorized into two areas: post-cycle therapy (PCT) and during steroid cycles. Anabolic steroids suppress natural testosterone production, and the degree of this suppression varies with the type and dosage of steroids used. After steroid use concludes, testosterone production may resume but gradually, often leading to low testosterone levels and associated side effects. This period can result in muscle loss as cortisol levels increase in the absence of testosterone. Therefore, many steroid users adopt a PCT approach to accelerate recovery, which allows for sufficient testosterone levels while natural production restarts.
Various PCT strategies exist, often incorporating selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) like Nolvadex (Tamoxifen Citrate) and/or Clomid (Clomiphene Citrate). Some users find that beginning PCT with HCG before introducing SERMs can enhance recovery. HCG mimics luteinizing hormone (LH), preparing the body for the ensuing SERM therapy and facilitating a more effective recovery.
Another advantage of HCG for steroid users is its administration during the steroid cycle. Steroid use can lead to testicular shrinkage due to reduced natural testosterone production. Supplementing with HCG can maintain testicular size, which, while mostly cosmetic, may provide some recovery benefits later. However, users must be cautious as it is possible to develop a dependency on HCG for LH, which can be problematic. Those using HCG while managing low testosterone concerns may find this less of an issue, but users not suffering from low testosterone should monitor use closely to prevent dependency. Careless HCG use can cause more harm than many steroids, making responsible use essential regardless of whether it's during a cycle or as part of PCT.
Side Effects:Anabolic steroid users utilizing HCG during their cycles typically follow a standard dosing of 250 iu every 4-5 days, which should be sufficient to achieve desired results while protecting future natural testosterone production.
For PCT, two effective dosing protocols exist. The first involves administering 1,500-4,000 iu every 3-4 days for 2-3 weeks, after which SERM therapy commences. Alternatively, a continuous dosing approach of 500-1,000 iu daily for 10 consecutive days may prove to be more effective, leading into SERM therapy after completion.
Timing is crucial when using HCG in PCT. If the steroid cycle ends with larger ester-based steroids, HCG therapy should begin 10 days after the last injection, followed by SERM therapy. If the cycle ends with smaller ester-based steroids, HCG therapy should start 3 days post-injection, also followed by SERM therapy.