Summary
Human chorionic gonadotropin is the hormone that pregnancy tests detect. It activates the same receptor as LH, so it is used to trigger ovulation, stimulate testosterone production in men with pituitary deficiency, and treat undescended testes. It has no proven role in weight loss.
Structure
A glycoprotein of two subunits (alpha, 92 residues; beta, 145 residues) with extensive glycosylation. Not a short synthetic peptide.
How it works
hCG binds the LH/choriogonadotropin receptor on ovarian and testicular cells. Its half-life is much longer than LH’s because of its glycosylated C-terminal peptide.
Research use cases
Areas where hCG has been studied. Inclusion here does not mean it works for that purpose.
- Ovulation trigger in fertility treatment
- Male hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
- Prepubertal cryptorchidism
- Maintaining testicular function during testosterone therapy (off-label)
What the research found
Biology review
Cole summarizes the distinct forms of hCG, including hyperglycosylated hCG and free beta-subunit, and their roles in pregnancy and cancer.1
Safety and open questions
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and multiple pregnancy in fertility use; gynaecomastia and fluid retention in men. Labels state it has not been shown to be effective for weight loss.
Regulatory status
FDA-approved for ovulation induction, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and cryptorchidism. Prescription only. Not approved for weight loss; the FDA requires a label statement to that effect.
Status was accurate when this page was last reviewed on October 26, 2026. Regulations change; check with the relevant authority before relying on it.
hCG: common questions
Does hCG help with weight loss?
No. Controlled trials did not show benefit beyond the very-low-calorie diet used with it, and FDA-approved labels carry an explicit statement saying so.
Is hCG approved for human use?
FDA-approved for ovulation induction, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and cryptorchidism. Prescription only. Not approved for weight loss; the FDA requires a label statement to that effect.
References
- Cole LA. (2010). Biological functions of hCG and hCG-related molecules. Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology.
Links open a PubMed search for the exact title, or the original source where one is given.