HCG vs HMG
FDA Approved vs Extensively Studied
synergistic hCG is typically used to trigger ovulation after HMG-induced follicular development.
Molecular Data
HCG HMG
Weight 36,700 Da —
Half-life 24-36 hours ~32 hours (FSH component: 39-54 hours)
Chain 237 amino acids (alpha: 92, beta: 145) —
Type Heterodimeric glycoprotein Gonadotropin mixture
Key Benefits
HCG
01 Maintains testicular function during TRT
02 Preserves fertility and prevents testicular atrophy
03 Stimulates endogenous testosterone production
04 Induces ovulation in women
05 FDA-approved for multiple indications
06 Well-established safety profile
HMG
01 FDA-approved for fertility treatment
02 Stimulates ovarian follicle development
03 Contains both FSH and LH naturally
04 Promotes spermatogenesis in men
05 Cost-effective alternative to recombinant FSH
06 LH activity may improve fertilization rates
07 Long clinical track record
08 Lower OHSS incidence with HP-hMG
Dosing Protocols
HCG
250-1500 IU (lower for TRT adjunct, higher for fertility) / 2-3 times weekly, or every other day for lower doses
TRT Adjunct (Low) 250-500 IU Every other day
TRT Adjunct (Standard) 500-1000 IU Twice weekly
HCG Monotherapy 1500-2000 IU 2-3x weekly
Fertility (with FSH) 1500-2000 IU 2-3x weekly
Cryptorchidism (Pediatric) 1000-5000 IU 2-3x weekly for 3-4 weeks
Ovulation Trigger (Female) 5000-10,000 IU Single dose
PCT Protocol 1000-1500 IU Every other day for 2-3 weeks
HMG
75-150 IU for ovulation induction; 150-300 IU for IVF / Daily during stimulation phase (7-12 days)
Ovulation induction 75-150 IU Daily
IVF stimulation 150-300 IU Daily for 7-12 days
Male fertility 75-150 IU 2-3x weekly
Side Effects
HCG
Gynecomastia (breast tenderness/swelling) due to increased estrogen
Headaches, irritability, and mood swings (especially initially)
Fluid retention and edema
Potential antibody formation with long-term use
HMG
Injection site reactions
Abdominal discomfort
Ovarian enlargement
Mood changes
Headache
Contraindications
Hormone-sensitive cancers (prostate, breast)
Pregnancy (except as prescribed)
Precocious puberty risk in children
Primary ovarian failure
Uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal dysfunction
Sex hormone-dependent tumors
Abnormal uterine bleeding of unknown cause
Ovarian cysts (not due to PCOS)
Pregnancy
Research Evidence
HCG HMG
Status FDA Approved Extensively Studied
References 5 studies 4 studies
FDA Approved Yes Yes
This comparison is for educational and research purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional before use.