Overview
DESCRIPTION Chorionic gonadotropin, a gonadotropin, is a polypeptide hormone produced by the human placenta and obtained from the urine of pregnant persons. Chorionic gonadotropin is a purified preparation composed of an alpha and a beta subunit. The alpha subunit is essentially identical to the alpha subunits of the human pituitary gonadotropins, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating...
Mechanism of Action
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY The action of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is virtually identical to that of pituitary LH, although hCG appears to have a small degree of FSH activity as well. It stimulates production of gonadal steroid hormones by stimulating the interstitial cells (Leydig cells) of the testis to produce androgens and the corpus luteum of the ovary to produce progesterone. Androgen stimulation in the male leads to the development of secondary sex characteristics and may stimulate testicular descent when no anatomical impediment to descent is present. This descent is usually reversible when hCG is discontinued.
Indications
- INDICATIONS AND USAGE HCG HAS NOT BEEN DEMONSTRATED TO BE EFFECTIVE ADJUNCTIVE THERAPY IN THE TREATMENT OF OBESITY. THERE IS NO SUBSTANTIAL EVIDENCE THAT IT INCREASES WEIGHT LOSS BEYOND THAT RESULTING FROM CALORIC RESTRICTION, THAT IT CAUSES A MORE ATTRACTIVE OR “NORMAL” DISTRIBUTION OF FAT, OR THAT IT DECREASES THE HUNGER AND DISCOMFORT ASSOCIATED WITH CALORIE-RESTRICTED DIETS. Prepubertal cryptorchidism not due to anatomical obstruction. In general, hCG is thought to induce testicular descent in situations when descent would have occurred at puberty.
Common Doses
- 10 mL
Dosage
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION For intramuscular use only. Each multiple-dose vial is to be used for one patient. The dosage regimen employed in any particular case will depend upon the indication for the use, the age and weight of the patient, and the physician’s preference. The following regimens have been advocated by various authorities: Prepubertal cryptorchidism not due to anatomical obstruction. Generally, institute therapy in children between the ages of 4 and 9. 4000 USP units 3 times weekly for 3 weeks. 5000 USP units every second day for 4 injections.
Contraindications
- CONTRAINDICATIONS Prior hypersensitivity reactions to human gonadotropins, including hCG, or any of the excipients (see ADVERSE REACTIONS ). High serum FSH, indicating primary gonadal failure in women. Presence of uncontrolled non-gonadal endocrinopathies (e.g., thyroid, adrenal, or pituitary disorders). Tumors of the hypothalamus or pituitary gland and ovary, breast, or uterus in females and breast or prostate in males. Malformations of the reproductive organs incompatible with pregnancy. Fibroid tumors of the uterus incompatible with pregnancy.
Side Effects
- ADVERSE REACTIONS For males and females: Immune system disorders Hypersensitivity reactions, both localized and systemic in nature, including anaphylaxis have been reported. In rare cases, generalized rash or fever may occur (see CONTRAINDICATIONS and WARNINGS ). If a hypersensitivity reaction is suspected, discontinue PREGNYL and assess for other potential causes for the event. Psychiatric disorders Irritability Restlessness Depression Nervous system disorders Headache General disorders and administration site conditions PREGNYL may cause reactions at the site of injection, such as bruising,...
Interactions
- No major interactions listed on the FDA label. Always consult a healthcare professional.