Generic Drug Name: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
Other Common Names: HCG, Chorulon, Chorionic, Gonadotropin
Related Information
Human chorionic gonadotropin is a human hormone that mimics the luteinizing hormone. It is commonly used in many species to treat a variety of reproductive conditions. It can also be used to treat cows for nymphomania caused by cystic ovaries.
Human chorionic gonadotropin has not been reported to cause any contraindications in animal patients.
Human chorionic gonadotropin has been known to cause abortion in mares prior to the 35th day of pregnancy. This is believed to be caused by increased estrogen levels. In humans, human chorionic gonadotropin can cause symptoms such as pain at the injection site, gynecomastia, headache, depression, irritability, and edema. While these symptoms have not been reported in animal patients, they should still be watched for.
Human chorionic gonadotropin should not be used in animals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to the drug. While no cases of overdose due to human chorionic gonadotropin have been reported, a veterinarian should be contacted immediately should any unusual symptoms occur.
In powder form, human chorionic gonadotropin should be kept at room temperature in a tight, light resistant, childproof container. When reconstituted, it should be kept at 35-59 degrees Fahrenheit, and remains usable for 30-90 days.
For most treatments for dogs, the typical dose of human chorionic gonadotropin is 500 units injected at different rates depending on the condition being treated. In cats, the common dose is between 50-100 units. For treating ovarian cysts in cattle, a typical dose is 10,000 units intramuscularly, or 2500-5000 units intravenously, and should be repeated after 14 days if the patient's behavior or physical exam reveals a need for more. If a dose has been forgotten, it should be administered as soon as possible. Should it almost be time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped and the scheduled dose administered. Two doses should not be given at the same time.
Doses may vary in different species, when the drug is given by a different route or concurrently with other medications, and with regards to a patient's age, breed, and health status. A veterinarian's dosing instructions and/or those printed on the medication label should be followed closely.