ZyhCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)

What is ZyhCG?

ZyhCG is an injectable medication that contains human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone naturally produced during pregnancy. It is available as a lyophilized powder for reconstitution and injection.

What are the Uses of ZyhCG?

ZyhCG is primarily used in:

• Women:

  • To trigger ovulation in infertility treatment

  • To support the luteal phase in assisted reproductive techniques

• Men:

  • To treat hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (low testosterone due to pituitary gland issues)

  • To stimulate spermatogenesis in cases of male infertility

  • In boys with cryptorchidism (undescended testicles) not due to anatomical obstruction

What are the Benefits of ZyhCG?

• Helps induce ovulation in women who do not ovulate regularly

• Boosts testosterone production in men with hormonal deficiencies

• Improves sperm production in cases of male infertility

• Assists in the descent of testicles in boys with cryptorchidism

• Supports fertility during IVF cycles

How Does ZyhCG Work?

ZyhCG mimics luteinizing hormone (LH) in the body. LH is vital for:

• Triggering ovulation in females by stimulating the ovarian follicle

• Stimulating Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone in males

This makes ZyhCG effective for both ovulation induction and testosterone stimulation.

How to Take ZyhCG?

• ZyhCG is administered via intramuscular (IM) or subcutaneous (SC) injection.

• It should be reconstituted using sterile water or sodium chloride solution provided in the pack.

• The injection is usually given by a healthcare provider, but trained patients may self-administer under guidance.

Dosage of ZyhCG

Dosage varies depending on the condition:

• Ovulation induction in females: 5,000 to 10,000 IU as a single dose after appropriate follicular development

• Male hypogonadism: 1,000–4,000 IU 2–3 times per week for several weeks or months

• Cryptorchidism in boys: 500–2,000 IU 2–3 times per week

Always follow the exact dosage prescribed by your doctor.

Missed Dose and Overdose

• Missed dose: Take it as soon as you remember. Skip if it’s almost time for the next dose. Do not double dose.

• Overdose: Rare, but may cause symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, or gynecomastia. Seek immediate medical help.

What are the Available Strengths of ZyhCG?

ZyhCG is typically available in:

• 2000 IU

• 5000 IU

• 10000 IU

Each vial contains powdered hCG and comes with a separate diluent for reconstitution.

Side Effects of ZyhCG

Common:

• Injection site pain or swelling

• Headache

• Fatigue

• Irritability

• Mild abdominal discomfort

Serious (seek medical help):

• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in women (bloating, pelvic pain)

• Blood clots

• Allergic reactions (rash, difficulty breathing)

• Gynecomastia (in males)

Interactions of ZyhCG

• May interact with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs used in fertility treatment

• Concomitant use with other fertility drugs like menotropins (hMG) should be medically supervised

Always inform your doctor about all medications, herbs, and supplements you’re taking.

Precautions of ZyhCG

• Not for use in individuals with hormone-sensitive tumors (e.g., prostate or breast cancer)

• Avoid in cases of early puberty in boys or uncontrolled thyroid/adrenal disorders

• Should not be use during pregnancy

• Use caution in women at risk of OHSS

• Monitor testosterone levels in long-term male users

Storage Information

• Store reconstituted solution in the refrigerator and use within the time specified (usually within 24–48 hours)

• Store unmixed vials at room temperature (below 25°C) away from light and moisture

• Do not freeze

Availability in the US and Australia

• In the United States: hCG is available by prescription under various brands like Pregnyl, Novarel, and Ovidrel (a recombinant form). ZyhCG may not be FDA-approv but could be available via online or international pharmacies.

• In Australia: hCG is regulated and available under brands like Profasi or Ovidrel, often prescribed through fertility clinics. ZyhCG may be available through select pharmacies or online with a prescription.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is ZyhCG a steroid?

No, ZyhCG is not an anabolic steroid. It is a hormone that stimulates natural hormone production.

Q2. Can ZyhCG help with bodybuilding?

It is sometimes misused by bodybuilders to maintain testosterone levels during steroid cycles, but this is not a medically approved use.

Q3. How fast does ZyhCG work?

In women, ovulation typically occurs 36–48 hours after injection. In men, it may take weeks to months to see improved sperm or testosterone levels.

Q4. Can ZyhCG be use during pregnancy?

No. ZyhCG is contraindicated during pregnancy and should not be use.

Q5. Does it increase chances of twins?

Fertility treatments involving hCG may increase the likelihood of multiple births due to multiple ovulations.