HCG, or human chorionic gonadotropin, is a hormone associated with pregnancy. The hormone has the ability to interact with other hormones in the body, such as estrogen, and plays a role in the hormone level shifts that occur early in pregnancy. In recent years, HCG injections, supplemented with an extremely low calorie diet, have been used as a weight loss method. Though HCG may help you lose weight, overdosing on the drug can have serious side effects.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation
One potential effect of an overdose or overusing HCG is ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, also called OHSS. Women with OHSS develop overactive ovaries, leading to the abnormal release of ova, or eggs. Under normal conditions, the ovaries release one ovum for each reproductive cycle, during ovulation. This release is governed by circulating hormone levels in the body, guiding the behavior of the ovaries. After an overdose of HCG, the resulting hormone imbalance can affect ovary functioning, leading to OHSS. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, OHSS can lead to abdominal bloating and pain, and a decrease in urination. If you develop any of these symptoms after taking HCG, seek immediate medical attention.
Increased Cancer Risk
Another potential side effect of HCG overdose is an increased risk of the development of certain cancers. Many types of cancer, including ovarian and uterine cancers in women, and prostate and testicular cancers in men, respond to circulating hormones in the body. The presence of certain hormones, such as estrogen or testosterone, can promote cancer growth, driving tumor growth and development. HCG overdose can shift normal hormone levels in the blood, potentially worsening any abnormal cell growth. In addition, high levels of HCG in the blood, that would result from HCG overdose, can mimic the conditions that occur in some forms of cancer, according to the Stanford Medicine Cancer Center. You can help protect against this risk by avoiding HCG injections if you have a pre-existing cancer, and consulting with a physician before receiving HCG injections.
Early Puberty
HCG injections and overdose in pre-pubertal adolescents can have serious side effects. Although pre-adolescent boys should not take HCG injections except under the strict supervision of a doctor, accidental injection of HCG at home can easily cause HCG overdose. According to the University of California San Francisco, one side effect of HCG overdose in boys is early onset of puberty. Boys that overdose on the medication begin to develop a deepened voice, acne, increased sweating and pubic hair growth. If you notice a boy developing these symptoms after exposure to HCG, contact a medical professional immediately.
