Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin

Generic Details

Generic Name

Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin

Other Names

  • hCG
  • Chorionic Gonadotropin
  • Pregnyl

Drug Class

  • Hormone
  • Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Analog

Chemical Formula

C149H226N40O38

Molecular Weight

36.7 kDa

Mechanism of Action

  • Stimulates the release of the egg during ovulation in females
  • Stimulates the production of testosterone in males

Indications

  • Infertility in women
  • Stimulating ovulation in women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies
  • Cryptorchidism in young boys
  • Hypogonadism in men

Common Dosage Forms

  • Injection

Typical Dosage

  • 5000-10000 IU injected intramuscularly for ovulation induction

Pediatric Dosage

  • Dosage varies based on the condition and age of the child

Geriatric Dosage

  • Dosage adjustment may be needed in elderly patients

Side Effects

  • Injection site reactions
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Restlessness
  • Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
  • Breast tenderness or swelling
  • Mood swings

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to hCG
  • Precocious puberty
  • Androgen-dependent tumors
  • Primary ovarian failure
  • Hormone-sensitive cancers

Pregnancy Category

  • X - contraindicated in pregnancy

Lactation Safety

  • Limited data available, caution advised

Drug Interactions

  • Clomiphene
  • Gonadorelin
  • Menotropins
  • Follitropin

Overdose Symptoms

  • Risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

Antidote for Overdose

  • Treatment is usually symptomatic and supportive

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature (20-25°C)
  • Protect from light
  • Do not freeze

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Well-absorbed after intramuscular injection
  • Distribution: Distributed widely throughout the body
  • Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine
  • Excretion: Primarily excreted through the kidneys

Precautions

  • Regular monitoring of ovarian response during treatment
  • Use with caution in patients with a history of thromboembolism

Warnings

  • Risk of multiple births with ovulation induction therapy
  • Monitor for signs of OHSS

Others

  • Should be administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional