I've heard a lot about HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) and its role in a steroid cycle, particularly in preserving testicular function and aiding in recovery. When should HCG be used (on-cycle, or pre-PCT)? What are the typical dosages, and are there any downsides to its use, like potential desensitization of the Leydig cells?
HCG mimics Luteinizing Hormone (LH), which tells the testes to produce testosterone. During a steroid cycle, your body stops producing LH, leading to testicular atrophy. Using HCG on-cycle is a good way to keep the testes "online" and prevent this atrophy, which makes a PCT much easier and more successful.
The typical protocol for on-cycle HCG is a low dose, like 250-500 IU, injected twice a week. This keeps the testes from shutting down completely. Using it pre-PCT is also an option, but it's a different approach. You'd use it for a short period at a higher dose to "prime" the testes before starting your SERM.
The potential downside is Leydig cell desensitization. If you use HCG for too long or at too high a dose, your Leydig cells can become unresponsive to the LH signal, which is counterproductive. This is why a low, steady dose on-cycle is generally preferred.
From a health perspective, having a functioning HPTA axis is critical for more than just aesthetics. It affects your mental health, bone density, and overall well-being. HCG helps to preserve that function, making it a very valuable tool.
It's not a replacement for a SERM-based PCT. HCG only addresses the "message" from the brain to the testes. A SERM addresses the "message" from the brain to the pituitary. You need both for a full recovery.
This is a great clarification. So, HCG and SERMs serve different but complementary roles. A low-dose on-cycle protocol seems to be the most responsible way to use HCG. What about the source? HCG is also very expensive.
HCG is a medical-grade product, so it is often more expensive and harder to find. It's another reason to only consider it for longer, more suppressive cycles where the risk of atrophy is higher. Again, source verification is key.
Some people find a higher dose of HCG pre-PCT (e.g., 1000 IU EOD for 10 days) works well for them, but it's a more aggressive approach. The on-cycle, low-dose method is a safer bet for most users.
And be aware of the estrogenic side effects of HCG. Since it stimulates testosterone production, that testosterone can aromatize into estrogen. An AI may be needed on-cycle.