Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a hormone that develops in the placenta during pregnancy. HCG injections can treat infertility by increasing sperm count in men and causing ovulation in women. Some body builders use HCG to decrease or redistribute body fat, although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration notes a lack of substantial evidence to support these uses. Some body builders take HCG to stimulate testosterone production in combination with steroid use. HCG side effects are serious.
Allergic Reaction
Some people experience an allergic reaction to HCG. Anyone taking HCG injections who develops a rash or hives should seek immediate medical attention, because more serious symptoms can develop. These include difficulty breathing, severe facial swelling, or throat closing.
Blood Clots
An HCG injection can result in a blood clot, although this is rare. A blood clot may generate localized pain, numbness, tingling, redness, swelling or warmth in a leg or arm. The individual might also feel dizzy or confused, and may have a severe headache.
Hormone-Related Conditions
Because it is a reproductive hormone, HCG can worsen certain hormone-related health conditions. They include cancer and other disorders involving the prostate gland, breast, ovary, uterus, thyroid, hypothalamus, adrenal gland and pituitary gland.
Birth Defects
Women who may become pregnant should not use HCG for body building purposes. Although HCG is used for fertility issues, the high levels of this hormone administered by injection are associated with severe birth defects. Any woman using HCG to become pregnant must find out as soon as possible if she is successful, and immediately stop taking the injections.
Multiple Births
Even if a woman stops taking HCG very soon after becoming pregnant and prevents abnormal development of the baby, other pregnancy considerations are important. HCG injections increase the incidence of multiple births, which can mean four or more babies in some cases. These pregnancies can be risky for the mother's health and also can lead to premature delivery and associated health problems for the baby, along with low birth weight and a lower survival rate.
Dangerous Syndrome
Another possible HCG side effect that women body builders must consider is ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, a medical emergency. Women taking HCG who develop intense pelvic pain, diarrhea, nausea, difficulty breathing, decreased urination amounts or swelling of the abdomen, hands or legs should seek emergency medical attention. The condition can be fatal.
