This is an anterior pituitary hormone. (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin; HCG)

A preparation of a glycoprotein fraction secreted by the placenta and obtained from the urine of pregnant women having the action of the pituitary luteinising hormone.

Indications: female primary or secondary amenorrhoea, post-partum amenorrhoea, sterility.In the male it is used for cryptorchidism, delayed puberty, hypogonadism, infertility.

Cautions: asthma, epilepsy, migraine cardiac or renal impairment, prepubertal boys (risk of premature epiphyseal closure or precocious puberty)

Contra-indications: androgen-dependent tumours.

Side Effects: oedema (particularly in males—reduce dose), headache, tiredness, mood changes, multiple pregnancy, gynaecomastia, local reactions; ovarian hyperstimulation may be aggravated.

Dose: by IM or SC injection; usual dose is 500-5000 units twice weekly.