HCG is a widely used adjunct in testosterone replacement therapy.
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin functions as a fertility treatment for both male and female patients.
Injectable HCG is typically supplied in freeze-dried (powder) form and must be reconstituted before administration.
The diluent used for reconstitution is bacteriostatic water, which normally accompanies your shipment and contains 0.9% Benzyl Alcohol as a preservative.
Continue reading to learn the proper procedure for preparing and administering your HCG.
Step 1: Prepare your workspace and gather supplies.
First, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Next, assemble all necessary materials: alcohol prep pads, bacteriostatic water and HCG vials, a reconstitution syringe with needle, and a sharps disposal container.
If planning immediate administration after reconstitution, prepare an additional injection syringe, needle, and alcohol pad. (Using separate needles helps maintain sterility and needle sharpness.)
Step 2: Prepare your vials and equipment.
Remove the protective caps from both the bacteriostatic water and HCG vials, then disinfect the rubber stoppers using an alcohol pad.
Attach the needle to your syringe carefully, avoiding any contact with the needle tip. Ensure the needle remains sterile by preventing contact with any surfaces.
For subsequent injection, attach the second needle to its syringe (again avoiding contact with the needle tip) and keep an alcohol pad ready for skin preparation at the injection site.
Step 3: Prepare the bacteriostatic water.
The required volume of bacteriostatic water depends on vial size. Standard 10,000 IU HCG vials typically require 10 mL of bacteriostatic water.
Verify your syringe is marked in milliliters (mL). Draw the appropriate volume of air (usually 10 mL, but confirm with your prescription instructions).
Invert the bacteriostatic water vial and carefully insert the needle through the stopper.
Slowly inject the air into the vial. If resistance is felt, pause to allow pressure equalization before completing the transfer. The bacteriostatic water should then fill the syringe to the correct volume.
Maintain strict sterile technique throughout to prevent contamination.
Step 4: Reconstitute the HCG powder.
Insert the needle containing bacteriostatic water into the HCG vial’s stopper.
Slowly inject the bacteriostatic water into the vial. If resistance occurs, pause to allow pressure adjustment before continuing. The plunger may rebound slightly during this process.
Proceed with caution – never force the solution into the vial.
Step 5: Mix the solution.
Gently swirl the vial until the powder completely dissolves. Avoid shaking your medication. The final solution should appear clear with no visible particles.
Step 6: Administer the injection (if applicable).
When ready to inject, use your prepared second needle, syringe, and alcohol pad.
For detailed subcutaneous injection techniques, consult specific guidelines. While HCG injections are typically subcutaneous, always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Step 7: Proper storage.
Refrigerate reconstituted HCG immediately after preparation.
Unmixed HCG powder may be stored at room temperature, but reconstituted solution requires refrigeration.
Reconstituted HCG remains stable for 60-90 days when properly refrigerated.
Brief room temperature exposure (under 72 hours) typically doesn’t compromise medication integrity.
HCG Dosage Guidelines
On a standard syringe, each increment represents 10 units of reconstituted HCG, calculated as:
- 10 units = 100 IU HCG
- 25 units = 250 IU HCG
- 50 units = 500 IU HCG
For example, a 100 IU dose would require filling the syringe to the 10-unit mark.
Your healthcare provider will determine your personalized dosing regimen.
Understanding HCG
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a multifunctional hormone that supports reproductive health. In women, it facilitates ovulation, while in men it stimulates sperm production.
HCG mimics luteinizing hormone (LH) in males, promoting testosterone production. For men undergoing TRT, HCG helps maintain fertility and prevent testicular atrophy.
Important HCG Considerations
HCG is primarily administered via injection.
For self-administration, carefully review all provider instructions and ensure proper injection technique.
HCG Availability Update
Recent FDA regulations have limited access to compounded HCG, making it available only through commercial prescriptions at higher costs. The industry is currently experiencing HCG shortages during this transition period.
MedsBase offers solutions for patients needing HCG without prescription requirements, addressing issues like testicular atrophy, fertility preservation, sexual dysfunction, and low testosterone.