Kits for HCG

Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is an endogenous hormone available in injections and oral drops. HCG is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for fertility treatments and used off-label for male fertility. FDA-approved HCG is only available in an injectable form under the trade name Pregnyl. Controversially, HCG kits are used to lose weight in conjunction with a low-calorie diet.

HCG Injection Kits for Weight Loss

Doctors in the United States prescribe HCG in specialized weight loss clinics. The drug is often administered subcutaneously, or below the skin, using insulin needles. The injection process requires alcohol wipes, sterile water or bacteriostatic water for mixing and lyophilized HCG (powder). This method of weight loss was popularized by Kevin Trudeau in his book "The Weight Loss Cure They Don't Want You to Know About." The book recommends 175 international units (IUs) of powdered HCG per day.

HCG Drops

Homeopathic HCG drops are supplements unregulated by the FDA. The kits typically come in 23- or 46-day vials. Homeopathic formulas dilute the key ingredient to levels that are physiologically negligible, and no peer-reviewed data exists for the efficacy of HCG drops.

HCG Fertility Kits

HCG for fertility purposes uses the same kit as weight loss, but with higher dosages. A dose of 5,000 to 10,000 IUs is recommended to induce ovulation. A prescription is required, usually from a fertility specialist. The drug is administered at home or at a health care facility. A 30-gauge needle, water solvent and alcohol wipes are recommended.

Male HCG

HCG kits for male fertility or recovery from steroid abuse are similar to those used for fertility or weight loss. Although HCG use is banned in many major sports, it's legal for personal use in the United States. This prescription is acquired from an endocrinologist or anti-aging physician, and is administered at home or at a doctor's office. A 30-gauge needle, water solvent and alcohol wipes are recommended.

References

• "US News and World Report"; HCG Diet Dangers: Is Fast Weight Loss Worth the Risk?; Angela Haupt; March 2011
• "Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility..."; Douglas T. Carrell, et al.; January 2010
• "The Weight Loss Cure They Don't Want You to Know About"; Kevin Trudeau; April 2007
• "American Association of Endocrinologists..."; Steven Petak, et al.; November 2002

Resources

• Mayo Clinic: Does the HCG Diet Work --- and is it Safe?; Jennifer Nelson; June 2010