Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG)
Also known as: Chorulon, Chorionad, P.G. 600, Profasi, Choron 10, Gonic, Novarel, Pregnyl
* **Administration:** This medication must be given by injection. It is not effective if given by mouth. * **Side Effects:** Your pet may experience mild pain or swelling at the injection site. * **Allergic Reactions:** Watch closely for signs of an allergic reaction, such as facial swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing, and contact your veterinarian immediately if these occur. * **Long-term Use:** If this medication is used repeatedly over a long period, your pet's body may develop antibodies against it, making it less effective over time.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
Veterinary professional? See the full dosing-by-species reference on VetSheet →
What it is used for
- HCG Challenge test (Male cats or females with suspected sexual differentiation disorder)
- HCG Challenge test (Queens to diagnose functional ovarian tissue)
- Infertility, reduced libido, testis descent in male cats
- Infertility in queens due to confirmed ovulation failure
- To induce ovulation in anestrus queens
- After artificial insemination
- Estrus management
- Treatment of ovarian cysts
- Cryptorchidism (Foals)
- To induce ovulation in early estrus (dominant follicle >35 mm)
- Treatment of persistent follicles during the early transition period
- To hasten ovulation and reduce variability of estrus after prostaglandin synchronization
- To reduce feather plucking (especially in female birds)
- Cystic ovaries (Guinea pigs)
- Cryptorchidism
- HCG Challenge test (Male dogs or females with suspected sexual differentiation disorder)
- HCG Challenge test (Female dogs to diagnose functional ovarian tissue)
- To produce luteinization of a persistent follicular cyst
- Infertile bitches cycling normally with low progesterone due to lack of corpus luteum formation
- Male infertility secondary to low testosterone, LH and FSH
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Hypersensitivity reactions / Anaphylaxis
- Pain at the injection site
- Antibody production leading to diminished efficacy (with repeated use)
- Abortion in mares if given prior to the 35th day of pregnancy
- Gynecomastia, headache, depression, irritability, and edema (reported in humans)
Cautions & contraindications
- Androgen-dependent neoplasias (e.g., prostatic carcinoma)
- Precocious puberty
- Known hypersensitivity to HCG
- Pregnancy (FDA Category X in humans, unless specifically indicated for reproductive management)
- > **Warning:** Antibody production to this hormone has been reported after repetitive use, resulting in diminished effect. * **Pregnancy:** FDA Category X in humans (risk of use clearly outweighs any possible benefit). May cause abortion in mares prior to the 35th day of pregnancy due to increased estrogen levels. * **Administration:** Must be given parenterally; it is destroyed in the GI tract if given orally.
Frequently asked questions
What is Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) used for in pets?
• Administration: This medication must be given by injection. It is not effective if given by mouth. • Side Effects: Your pet may experience mild pain or swelling at the injection site. • Allergic Reactions: Watch closely for signs of an allergic reaction, such as facial swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing, and contact your veterinarian immediately if these occur. • Long-term Use: If this medication is used repeatedly over a long period, your pet's body may develop antibodies against it, making it less effective over time.
Is Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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