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HCG (5000iu Vial) Dosage Protocol

Contents

Quickstart Highlights

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a glycoprotein hormone that mimics luteinizing hormone (LH) by binding to LH receptors in the gonads[1]. With a 36‑hour half‑life (compared to LH’s 30 minutes), HCG provides sustained stimulation of testosterone production in men and ovulation induction in women[2]. This educational protocol presents a practical three‑times‑weekly subcutaneous approach for maintaining testicular function and fertility.

  • Reconstitute: Add 2.0 mL bacteriostatic water → 2,500 IU/mL concentration.
  • Typical dosing: 500 IU subcutaneous, 3× weekly (Mon/Wed/Fri) for testicular maintenance during TRT.
  • Easy measuring: At 2,500 IU/mL, 1 unit = 25 IU on a U‑100 insulin syringe.
  • Storage: Lyophilized: refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F); after reconstitution, refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F) for up to 60 days.
HCG (5000iu Vial)
📘 Important: Before viewing any protocol, please consult our Prep & Injection Guide for essential preparation and safety instructions.

Dosing & Reconstitution Guide

Educational guide for reconstitution and daily dosing

Standard Protocol (2 mL = 2,500 IU/mL)

Week/Phase Dose per Injection (IU) Units (per injection) (mL)
Weeks 1–12 500 IU 20 units (0.20 mL)

Frequency: Inject 3 times weekly subcutaneously (e.g., Monday/Wednesday/Friday). This yields a total weekly dose of 1,500 IU. This schedule maintains intratesticular testosterone during exogenous testosterone therapy and supports fertility preservation[3][4].

Reconstitution Steps

  1. Draw 2.0 mL bacteriostatic water with a sterile syringe.
  2. Inject slowly down the vial wall; avoid foaming or vigorous shaking.
  3. Gently swirl or roll until the powder fully dissolves (clear solution).
  4. Label vial with reconstitution date and concentration (2,500 IU/mL); refrigerate immediately at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F).

Dosing Calculations:

  • 250 IU = 10 units (0.10 mL)
  • 500 IU = 20 units (0.20 mL)
  • 1,000 IU = 40 units (0.40 mL)

High‑Dose Protocol (for Post‑Cycle Recovery or Severe Suppression)

Week/Phase Dose per Injection (IU) Units (per injection) (mL)
Weeks 1–4 1,500 IU 60 units (0.60 mL)
Weeks 5–8 2,000 IU 80 units (0.80 mL)
Weeks 9–12 1,000 IU 40 units (0.40 mL)

Frequency: Inject 3 times weekly subcutaneously. High‑dose protocols (1,500–2,500 IU per injection) are used to reactivate testosterone production after prolonged anabolic steroid use or severe hypogonadotropic hypogonadism[5][6]. After initial recovery, doses are typically reduced to maintenance levels (500–1,000 IU 3×/week).

Important: This guide is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. For research use only. Not for human consumption.

Supplies Needed

Plan based on an 8–16 week protocol using standard 500 IU × 3 times weekly dosing.

  • Peptide Vials (HCG, 5000 IU each):
    • 8 weeks (1,500 IU/week × 8 = 12,000 IU total): 3 vials
    • 12 weeks (1,500 IU/week × 12 = 18,000 IU total): 4 vials
    • 16 weeks (1,500 IU/week × 16 = 24,000 IU total): 5 vials
  • Insulin Syringes (U‑100):
    • Per week: 3 syringes (Mon/Wed/Fri)
    • 8 weeks: 24 syringes
    • 12 weeks: 36 syringes
    • 16 weeks: 48 syringes
  • Bacteriostatic Water (10 mL bottles): Use 2.0 mL per vial for reconstitution.
    • 8 weeks (3 vials): 6 mL → 1 × 10 mL bottle
    • 12 weeks (4 vials): 8 mL → 1 × 10 mL bottle
    • 16 weeks (5 vials): 10 mL → 1 × 10 mL bottle
  • Alcohol Swabs: One for the vial stopper + one for the injection site each injection day.
    • Per week: 6 swabs (2 per injection × 3 injections)
    • 8 weeks: 48 swabs → recommend 1 × 100‑count box
    • 12 weeks: 72 swabs → recommend 1 × 100‑count box
    • 16 weeks: 96 swabs → recommend 1 × 100‑count box
Peptide Vial
Insulin Syringes
Bacteriostatic Water
Alcohol Pads

Protocol Overview

Concise summary of the intermittent HCG regimen.

  • Goal: Maintain testicular function and fertility during testosterone replacement therapy or restore endogenous testosterone production post‑cycle[3][7].
  • Schedule: Subcutaneous injections 3 times weekly for 8–16 weeks.
  • Dose Range: Standard maintenance: 500 IU per injection (1,500 IU/week); high‑dose recovery: 1,500–2,500 IU per injection.
  • Reconstitution: 2.0 mL per 5000 IU vial (2,500 IU/mL) for precise insulin‑syringe measurements.
  • Storage: Refrigerate lyophilized and reconstituted vials; reconstituted solution stable up to 60 days.

Dosing Protocol

Evidence‑based HCG dosing approaches.

  • Standard Maintenance: 500 IU SC on Monday/Wednesday/Friday maintains intratesticular testosterone at near‑normal levels during TRT[4].
  • High‑Dose Recovery: 1,500–2,500 IU SC 3×/week for 3–6 months to restart spermatogenesis and testosterone production after anabolic steroid cessation[5][6].
  • Frequency: Due to HCG’s 36‑hour half‑life, 3 times weekly is sufficient; daily injections are unnecessary[2].
  • Cycle Length: 8–12 weeks typical; extend to 16+ weeks for severe suppression cases.
  • Timing: Consistent days/times; rotate injection sites (abdomen, thighs).

Storage Instructions

Proper storage maintains HCG potency throughout your protocol.

  • Lyophilized (Unreconstituted): Refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F). Can be stored at room temperature but refrigeration is preferred for long‑term storage[8].
  • Reconstituted: Must be refrigerated at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F). Stable for up to 60 days when using bacteriostatic water[9].
  • Do NOT freeze reconstituted HCG; freezing denatures the protein[9].
  • Store in original packaging or light‑protected container; minimize light exposure.
  • Label vial with reconstitution date; discard after 60 days or if cloudiness/particles appear.

Important Notes

Practical considerations for safe and effective HCG administration.

  • Sterile Technique: Use new sterile insulin syringes; wipe vial stopper with alcohol before each draw; never reuse needles[10].
  • Site Rotation: Rotate between abdomen (2+ inches from navel), outer thighs, and upper arms to prevent irritation and lipohypertrophy[10].
  • Injection Speed: Inject slowly; wait 5–10 seconds before withdrawing needle to ensure full dispersal.
  • Monitoring: Consider periodic testosterone and estradiol testing; HCG can increase estradiol conversion in some individuals.
  • Documentation: Track injection dates, doses, and sites for consistency throughout the protocol.

How This Works

HCG is a glycoprotein hormone structurally similar to luteinizing hormone (LH). It binds to the same LH receptors in testicular Leydig cells, stimulating endogenous testosterone production[1]. Unlike endogenous LH (which has a 30‑minute half‑life), HCG’s extended 36‑hour half‑life provides sustained gonadal stimulation[2]. This makes it effective for maintaining testicular function during exogenous testosterone therapy, where natural LH production is suppressed. Studies show that low‑dose HCG (250–500 IU every other day) maintains intratesticular testosterone at near‑baseline levels in men receiving testosterone therapy[4]. Higher doses (1,500–5,000 IU multiple times weekly) are used to restore spermatogenesis and endogenous testosterone production in cases of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism or post‑anabolic steroid recovery[5][6].

Potential Benefits & Side Effects

Documented effects from clinical literature and medical practice.

Potential Benefits:

  • Fertility Preservation: Maintains intratesticular testosterone and spermatogenesis during TRT[3][4].
  • Testicular Size: Prevents or reverses testicular atrophy associated with exogenous testosterone use.
  • Testosterone Recovery: Restores endogenous testosterone production in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism or post‑cycle scenarios[5][6].
  • Hormonal Balance: Provides physiologic downstream hormone production (pregnenolone, DHEA) that exogenous testosterone alone does not provide.

Potential Side Effects:

  • Estradiol Elevation: HCG stimulates testicular aromatase, potentially increasing estradiol; may require monitoring and management.
  • Injection Site Reactions: Mild redness, swelling, or discomfort at injection sites (typically resolves quickly).
  • Acne/Oily Skin: Due to increased testosterone and estradiol production.
  • Testicular Discomfort: Occasional aching or sensitivity as dormant Leydig cells reactivate (usually temporary).
  • Gynecomastia Risk: Rare but possible if estradiol becomes significantly elevated without management.

Note: HCG is generally well‑tolerated at standard doses. Side effects are typically mild and manageable with dose adjustments or ancillary medications if needed.

Lifestyle Factors

Complementary strategies to optimize HCG effectiveness and overall hormonal health.

  • Sleep Optimization: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep; sleep deprivation significantly impairs testosterone production and fertility.
  • Stress Management: Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which antagonizes testosterone production; incorporate stress‑reduction practices.
  • Nutrition: Maintain adequate dietary fats (especially saturated and monounsaturated) for optimal steroid hormone synthesis; ensure sufficient protein and micronutrient intake (zinc, vitamin D, magnesium).
  • Exercise: Resistance training supports anabolic hormone production; avoid chronic excessive endurance exercise which can suppress testosterone.
  • Avoid Testicular Heat: Minimize hot tub/sauna use, tight underwear, and laptop-on-lap positioning to protect spermatogenesis.
  • Alcohol Moderation: Excessive alcohol consumption impairs testosterone production and testicular function.

Injection Technique

Subcutaneous injection best practices for HCG administration[10][11].

Preparation:

  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
  • Remove HCG vial from refrigerator; wipe rubber stopper with alcohol swab and allow to dry.
  • Draw prescribed dose into insulin syringe; tap out air bubbles.
  • Select injection site and clean with alcohol swab; allow to dry completely.

Injection Procedure:

  • Site Selection: Abdomen (2+ inches from navel), outer thigh, or back of upper arm. Rotate sites systematically.
  • Pinch Technique: Pinch a fold of skin between thumb and forefinger[11].
  • Needle Angle: Insert needle at 90-degree angle (straight in) for most people; 45-degree angle if very lean with minimal subcutaneous fat[12].
  • Injection: Do NOT aspirate for subcutaneous injections. Slowly depress plunger to inject solution[12].
  • Withdrawal: Wait 5–10 seconds after injecting, then withdraw needle at same angle inserted. Gently press (don’t rub) injection site with clean cotton or gauze.

Post-Injection:

  • Immediately dispose of used syringe in puncture‑proof sharps container.
  • Return HCG vial to refrigerator promptly.
  • Document injection date, dose, and site location.

Recommended Source

We recommend Prime Lab Peptides for high‑purity HCG (5000 IU).

Why Prime Lab Peptides?

  • Pharmaceutical‑Grade Purity: Third‑party tested with batch‑specific Certificates of Analysis (COAs) available.
  • Proper Handling: Cold‑chain shipping and storage to maintain peptide integrity.
  • Consistent Potency: Reliable biological activity matching labeled IU content.
  • Research‑Grade Quality: Manufactured under ISO‑aligned quality control standards.
  • Responsive Support: Knowledgeable customer service for reconstitution and storage questions.

Important Note

This content is intended for therapeutic educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. HCG is for research use only and is not approved for human consumption outside of legitimate medical supervision. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using HCG or any hormone therapy.

References


  • National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
    — Human Chorionic Gonadotropin: structure, function, and LH receptor binding mechanisms
    View Source

  • Seminars in Reproductive Medicine
    — Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of HCG: extended half‑life and sustained activity
    View Source

  • Translational Andrology and Urology (2018)
    — Lee JA & Ramasamy R: Review of hCG for hypogonadal male infertility (typical regimens: 1,500–5,000 IU 2–3×/week)
    View Source

  • The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (2005)
    — Coviello AD et al: Low‑dose hCG maintains intratesticular testosterone in men with testosterone‑induced gonadotropin suppression
    View Source

  • Male Infertility Guide
    — Clinical commentary on hCG dosing: 500 IU SC 3×/week for maintenance; 1,000–4,000 IU 3×/week for post‑androgen recovery
    View Source

  • Drugs.com (2025)
    — HCG Dosage Guide: Adult dose for male hypogonadism: 500–1,000 IU IM 3×/week for 3 weeks, then 2×/week; or 4,000 IU 3×/week for 6–9 months
    View Source

  • Mayo Clinic
    — Chorionic Gonadotropin drug description: uses for ovulation induction, sperm production, and cryptorchidism treatment
    View Source

  • University Hospitals Fertility Center
    — Patient instructions for low‑dose HCG: storage at room temperature (unreconstituted); refrigeration after mixing
    View Source

  • FDA Prescribing Information
    — Chorionic Gonadotropin (Pregnyl/Novarel): reconstituted solution stable for 60 days when refrigerated; do not freeze
    View Source

  • University Hospitals Fertility Center
    — SC injection technique for HCG: clean site, pinch skin, insert straight in, inject slowly, wait before removing needle; never reuse syringes
    View Source

  • Healthline (2019)
    — How to Inject hCG: step‑by‑step SC and IM injection instructions for fertility and hormone therapy applications
    View Source

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
    — Vaccine administration guidelines: subcutaneous injection technique (45–90° angle, no aspiration required)
    View Source

  • NCBI Bookshelf
    — Best practices for medication injection: aseptic technique, preparation, and safe administration procedures
    View Source

  • British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology (1995)
    — Lijesen GK et al: Meta‑analysis concluding no scientific evidence supports HCG for weight loss (obesity diet context)
    View Source