====== HCG Protocols ======

**Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)** is a peptide hormone structurally similar to luteinizing hormone (LH). In men, it stimulates the Leydig cells of the testes to produce testosterone. For steroid users, hCG is commonly used to:

  * Prevent or reverse testicular atrophy during a cycle
  * Maintain fertility
  * Support recovery of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis (HPTA)
  * Prime the body for effective post-cycle therapy (PCT)

===== What Is hCG? =====

  * Mimics the action of **LH**, signaling the testes to produce testosterone and sperm
  * Biologically active in males despite being a hormone found in pregnant women
  * Available as prescription medication or under research chemical (RC) labels

===== Why Use hCG? =====

**AAS use suppresses natural LH/FSH**, causing the testes to shut down testosterone and sperm production. Consequences may include:

  * Shrinking of testicles (testicular atrophy)
  * Reduced libido
  * Low energy and mood
  * Long-term fertility suppression

Using hCG **during or immediately after** a cycle can:

  * Keep testes functioning
  * Improve response to PCT SERMs
  * Shorten recovery time

===== Common HCG Protocols =====

^ Protocol Type ^ Timing ^ Dose Range ^ Frequency ^ Notes ^
| On-Cycle Support | During entire AAS cycle | 250–500 IU | 2–3x per week | Maintains testicular function and responsiveness |
| Pre-PCT Priming | Final 2–4 weeks of cycle | 500–1,000 IU | 2–3x per week | Helps restore size and baseline testicular function before PCT begins |
| Blast Protocol | Final 1–2 weeks before PCT | 1,000–2,000 IU | EOD (Every Other Day) | Aggressive stimulation to reverse testicular atrophy |
| Low Dose TRT Maintenance | Long-term TRT use | 250 IU | 2x per week | Used by some to retain fertility on TRT |

**Note:** Higher doses (>2,000 IU) may desensitize LH receptors. Always use the minimum effective dose.

===== Mixing and Storage =====

  * hCG comes as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder and must be reconstituted with **bacteriostatic water**
  * After mixing:
    - Store refrigerated (2–8°C / 35–46°F)
    - Stable for 30–60 days
  * Use insulin syringes (29–31G) for SubQ injection

===== SubQ vs IM Administration =====

  * **SubQ (subcutaneous)** injection is preferred
    - Less painful
    - Slower absorption but equally effective
  * **IM (intramuscular)** also works, but unnecessary for most users

===== PCT Integration =====

hCG is not a replacement for SERMs (e.g., Nolvadex or Clomid), but it can **enhance** PCT if used strategically. Best practices:

  * Do **not** use hCG during SERM-based PCT
  * Use **prior to** starting PCT to "prime" the testes
  * After stopping hCG, begin PCT with SERMs 3–5 days later

Recommended sequence:

  - Cycle ends  
  - Run hCG for 2–4 weeks (500–1,000 IU, 3x/week)  
  - Stop hCG  
  - Wait 3–5 days  
  - Begin SERM PCT (e.g., Nolva + Clomid)

===== Real-World Bodybuilder Insights =====

From the r/steroids community and Steroid Wiki PDF:

  * “If you’ve ever had marble-sized balls on PCT, you didn’t use hCG correctly.”
  * “250 IU twice per week on cycle = perfect sweet spot. No shrinkage.”
  * “Never run hCG with your SERM. You’ll confuse the HPTA and stall recovery.”
  * “Don’t wait until after cycle to fix shutdown. Prevention is always better.”

===== Bloodwork and Monitoring =====

To monitor HCG effectiveness:

  * Check **Total Testosterone**, **LH**, **FSH**, and **Estradiol (sensitive assay)**
  * Look out for signs of excess estrogen:
    - Bloating
    - Gyno
    - Mood swings

**Tip:** hCG can raise E2 due to increased testosterone → aromatization. Be prepared to use a low-dose **AI** (e.g., 0.25 mg Arimidex 2x/week) if symptoms arise.

===== Summary =====

  * hCG mimics LH and stimulates natural testosterone production
  * Use during or shortly after a cycle, but **not during SERM PCT**
  * Helps preserve testicular size and function
  * Improves response to PCT
  * Store properly and avoid overuse to prevent desensitization

Properly timed hCG use can dramatically improve hormonal recovery, fertility, and quality of life after a cycle.