HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)

The recombinant product was examined in three controlled studies in women, two in assisted reproduction and one in ovulation induction. The primary parameter measured in the assisted reproduction studies was the number of oocytes retrieved, and in the ovulation induction study the ovulation rate. Pharmacokinetics after a 250 microgram subcutaneous dose measured a peak concentration of 121 international units per litre at a median 24 hours, a terminal half-life of 29 hours and absolute bioavailability of about 40 per cent. The urinary-derived label records no comparable trial programme and instead specifies what is monitored during administration: serum oestradiol, transvaginal ultrasound follicle counts, serum progesterone and the urinary or serum luteinising hormone rise.

What is not established

The approved label carries a mandatory statement, in capitals, that this substance has no known effect on fat mobilisation, appetite or sense of hunger, or body fat distribution, and that it has not been demonstrated to be an effective adjunct in the management of obesity. The same section records that there is no substantial evidence it increases weight loss beyond that resulting from caloric restriction. Long-term animal studies of carcinogenic or mutagenic potential have not been performed.

What distinguishes HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)

It is a heterodimeric glycoprotein hormone with alpha and beta subunits, not a peptide, and it is the only compound in this range that exists as two separately regulated product families delivering the same receptor activity: preparations obtained from urine, and a recombinant glycoprotein expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells and dosed by mass in micrograms rather than in units. The recombinant product's potency is set by a rat bioassay from the European Pharmacopoeia monograph and calibrated against an international reference preparation. Its label is also the only one here carrying a regulator-mandated capitalised statement about obesity and weight loss.

Sources

1. US FDA. PREGNYL (chorionic gonadotropin) for injection, approved label
2. US FDA. OVIDREL PreFilled Syringe (choriogonadotropin alfa injection), approved label
3. US FDA. List of approved NDAs for biological products deemed to be BLAs on 23 March 2020
4. European Medicines Agency. Ovitrelle, EPAR medicine overview, EMEA/H/C/000320
5. World Anti-Doping Agency. 2026 Prohibited List, section S2.2.1

This page describes a compound as a material and summarises published research about it. It is for general and procurement information only. It is not medical advice, not a treatment recommendation, and not guidance on use. Supplied for laboratory and research use, not for human consumption.