The hormone human chorionic gonadotropin, or HCG, develops in the placenta during pregnancy. The hormone is useful as a medication for treating infertility, and physicians prescribe HCG injections to cause ovulation in women and elevate sperm count in men. Some bodybuilders use HCG to stimulate testosterone production and to decrease or redistribute body fat, and HCG is promoted as helpful for weight loss. Potentially negative effects are associated with using HCG, check with your physician before embarking on any alternative treatment course involving HCG.
Non-Serious Effects
Non-lethal side effects are associated with HCG supplementation, according to Brigham and Women's Hospital. Reported minor effects include irritation or inflammation at the injection site, headaches, mood changes, depression, irritability, restlessness, tiredness, mild fluid retention and breast tenderness or swelling.
Blood Clots
HCG injections have been linked to the development of blood clots. Signs of a blood clot, as listed by Drugs.com, include confusion, extreme dizziness, severe headache, and unexplained pain, numbness or tingling sensations and redness or warmth in a leg or arm. These symptoms call for immediate medical attention.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome
Some women using HCG have developed ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, or OHSS, according to Drugs.com. This is most common after the first treatment cycle. Because the condition can be life-threatening, seek immediate medical attention if symptoms occur such as severe pelvic pain, stomach pain and swelling, swelling of the hands or legs, unexplained rapid weight gain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, infrequent urination or shortness of breath.
Pregnancy Considerations
Women supplementing with HCG are more likely to have a multiple pregnancy, which is higher risk for both the mother and the babies. In addition, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration classifies HCG as pregnancy category X, indicating that it causes birth defects. A woman using HCG to help conceive must stop the injections as soon as she becomes pregnant.
Allergic Reaction
An allergic reaction to HCG supplementation is possible. Drugs.com advises seeking emergency medical treatment for allergic reaction including hives, breathing trouble and throat, facial or tongue swelling. An allergic reaction to medication can sometimes lead to anaphylactic shock, which can be life-threatening.
Early Puberty in Boys
Physicians sometimes prescribe HCG for young boys whose testicles have not descended normally. Boys taking HCG can experience early puberty, as noted by Drugs.com. Signs include a lower voice, development of facial and pubic hair, genital enlargement, sudden increase in height, acne and increased perspiration.
