Human chorionic gonadotropin, or HCG, is a hormone that is naturally produced mainly in women during pregnancy, but it can also be manufactured synthetically for use as a nutritional supplement. Lesser amounts of HCG are naturally produced in the pituitary gland of both males and females. Your body is stimulated by HCG to produce the hormone progesterone, which is a steroid hormone that serves many bodily functions related to tissue growth. Athletes use HCG synthetically in efforts to stimulate the production of progesterone for performance enhancement purposes. Medically, HCG is used to treat hormonal imbalances and fertility problems. It is legal in most states only through a prescription.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, or OHSS, is a side effect of HCG use in women. When your ovaries have become overstimulated as a result of HCG use, multiple cysts may develop on top of your ovaries, leading to ovarian swelling and leaking. While OHSS is somewhat rare, it is considered a medical emergency and can be fatal. This condition may result in severe pelvic pain, excessive sweating, stomach pain and swelling, shortness of breath, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting.
Anabolic Side Effects
Human chorionic gonadotropin naturally stimulates the production of the anabolic hormone progesterone in both men and women. Progesterone has a wide range of anabolic effects on your body, including the stimulation of muscle growth. Having unnaturally elevated levels of progesterone may result in serious side effects such as cardiac dysfunction, blood clots and increased risk of death from heart attack or stroke. Less severe side effects of the overproduction of progesterone include fluid retention, joint pain, nausea and diarrhea.
Body Swelling
Supplementation with HCG can cause you to retain water in your joints and other body cavities, especially your feet. Excess fluid retention may lead to joint discomfort and a decrease in circulation, causing your limbs to feel numb. You may also develop an electrolyte imbalance in your body by upsetting the delicate ratio of body water to sodium and potassium, which may increase your risk of hyperhydration, or overhydration, leading to gastroenteritis and vomiting.
Fatigue
One of the more common side effects of HCG use is physical and mental fatigue. Human chorionic gonadotropin triggers free fatty acids to move from your fat tissue into your bloodstream so they can be circulated and used for muscle activity. As a result, less glucose may be made available to provide immediate energy for your brain and skeletal muscles. Not having enough immediate energy can lead to an overall feeling of being weak or tired. Mental function may be slowed as well, because your brain operates primarily on glucose.
References
- "Human Anatomy and Physiology"; Elaine Nicpon Marieb; 2003
- "Anabolic Primer"; Phil Embleton and Gerard Thorne; 1998
