- hCG mimics LH, directly stimulating the testes to make testosterone and support sperm production.
- Doctors use it for male fertility and certain types of low testosterone.
- With TRT, low-dose hCG has been shown to help preserve sperm production.
- It raises estrogen as well as testosterone, and it’s a prescription drug in Canada.
hCG is best known as the pregnancy hormone, but in men it’s a useful medicine for fertility and testicular function. It’s also widely used by steroid users. This guide covers how it works, the evidence, and the risks.
How it works
hCG binds the same receptor as luteinizing hormone (LH). In men, that tells the Leydig cells in the testes to make testosterone, which in turn supports sperm production. Unlike clomiphene or tamoxifen, hCG works on the testes directly rather than on the brain.
Medical uses in men
- Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (low testosterone because the pituitary doesn’t make enough LH)
- Male infertility in specific conditions
- Undescended testes in boys
hCG with testosterone therapy
Testosterone therapy suppresses LH and sperm production. In a study of men on testosterone, adding low-dose hCG (500 IU every other day) preserved semen parameters over the follow-up period. Some doctors use this approach for men who want to keep fertility options open. See TRT in Canada.
After steroids
hCG is used to restart the testes after long suppression, often before or alongside SERMs. Because the brain still has to restart LH on its own afterwards, hCG alone doesn’t complete recovery. See our PCT guide and testicular atrophy guide.
Side effects
- Higher estradiol: breast tenderness, water retention, gynecomastia
- Injection site reactions
- Mood changes
- Rare allergic reactions
Weight loss: a warning
hCG has been marketed for weight loss, but studies haven’t shown it helps, and Health Canada has warned that hCG isn’t authorized for weight loss.
Mixing and storage
hCG comes as a powder mixed with bacteriostatic water (sold separately). Once mixed, keep it refrigerated and use within the timeframe for the product. See how to mix peptides.
Legal status in Canada
HCG is a prescription drug in Canada (on Health Canada’s Prescription Drug List). It isn’t a controlled substance.
Buying hCG in Canada
We stock HCG 5000 IU and HCG 5000IU vials, plus bacteriostatic water.
Frequently asked questions
What does hCG do for men?
It mimics LH, stimulating the testes to make testosterone and support sperm production.
Can hCG be used with TRT?
Yes. Low-dose hCG with testosterone has been shown to help preserve sperm production.
Does hCG raise estrogen?
Yes, along with testosterone, which can cause breast tenderness or water retention.
Is hCG a prescription drug in Canada?
Yes. It’s on Health Canada’s Prescription Drug List and isn’t a controlled substance.
Products mentioned in this guide
This article is general information for adults in Canada, not medical advice. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before using any prescription drug, anabolic steroid or research compound, and get bloodwork done. If you’re in crisis, call or text 9-8-8 (Suicide Crisis Helpline) any time.
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