HCG Dosage for PCT: Precision Recovery for Endocrine Restoration After Steroid Cycles
In the aftermath of an anabolic steroid cycle, the body’s hormonal system enters a fragile state. Natural testosterone production is suppressed, testicular volume may shrink, and estrogen levels fluctuate unpredictably. To stabilize this chaos and reclaim hormonal autonomy, many athletes turn to HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) as part of their Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) strategy. But getting the HCG dosage for PCT wrong can mean the difference between full recovery and permanent suppression.
This guide delivers a deep-dive into the true science, misunderstood nuances, and advanced protocols behind using HCG properly during PCT. This isn’t textbook theory—it’s next-level recovery planning for serious athletes who want more than just temporary restoration.
🔍 What Is HCG, and Why Does It Matter in PCT?
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a peptide hormone structurally similar to Luteinizing Hormone (LH). When introduced exogenously, it stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes, effectively mimicking LH and restarting endogenous testosterone production—especially important after long or suppressive anabolic cycles.
How It Works:
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Reverses testicular atrophy
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Reboots intratesticular testosterone (crucial for fertility)
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Creates a fertile hormonal environment before Clomid/Nolvadex are introduced
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Enhances sensitivity to LH/FSH stimulation in the actual PCT phase
💡 Unrepeatable Insight: HCG doesn’t fix the HPTA—it prepares it. Think of HCG as the “reboot button” for your testicles, not the final solution. The actual reprogramming happens when SERMs like Clomid or Nolvadex enter the picture after HCG.
💉 Optimal HCG Dosage for PCT
✅ Standard Protocol (For Most Moderate to Heavy Cycles)
Pre-PCT Phase (2 weeks after last steroid injection):
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HCG: 500 IU every other day (EOD)
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Duration: 2 weeks (6 total doses)
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Optional: Aromasin 6.25–12.5 mg EOD to control estrogen flare
Then transition directly into:
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Clomid: 50/50/25/25 mg per week (4 weeks)
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Nolvadex: 40/40/20/20 mg per week (4 weeks)
📌 Important: HCG must be discontinued before SERMs are started to avoid negative feedback suppression. Never overlap full-dose HCG with high-dose Clomid or Nolvadex.
🧠 Advanced HCG Protocols (Unrepeatable Scenarios)
1. Severe Suppression Protocol (e.g., long Trenbolone or Nandrolone cycles)
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HCG: 1000 IU EOD for 10 days
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Monitor estradiol and prolactin
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Add Aromasin 12.5 mg EOD or Letrozole if gynecomastia symptoms occur
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Begin SERMs 72 hours after final HCG dose
🧠 Pro Tip: Overdosing HCG (2000+ IU per dose) can lead to Leydig cell desensitization, causing less responsiveness to LH in future cycles. Avoid mega-dosing—precision wins.
2. HCG “On-Cycle” Use to Prevent Testicular Shrinkage
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HCG: 250 IU 2x/week starting week 3 of cycle
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Maintains testicular function
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Makes PCT easier by preventing full shutdown
This is ideal for users on blast-and-cruise or long estered cycles (like Test E, Deca).
3. Fertility Restoration Cycle
For those cycling off to conceive:
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HCG: 500 IU EOD + 25 mg Clomid + 20 mg Nolvadex for 4–6 weeks
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Add FSH injections if sperm count is non-responsive
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Blood test sperm count, LH, FSH, and total testosterone
💡 Elite Insight: Natural LH is insufficient in the early PCT window; HCG primes the testicles so that once Clomid kicks in, your body has the machinery already active.
❌ Common Mistakes with HCG Dosage in PCT
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Starting Too Late: Waiting 4–5 weeks post-cycle before HCG results in delayed recovery.
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Using Too Much: High-dose HCG leads to excess estrogen and desensitization.
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Using Alone: HCG without SERMs causes estrogenic suppression rebound—never use as a stand-alone PCT.
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Not Monitoring E2: Estrogen can spike with HCG use—bloodwork is essential.
✅ Final Takeaway: HCG Is the Catalyst, Not the Cure
Too many bodybuilders misuse HCG—either overdosing it, running it too long, or skipping it altogether. But when dosed precisely and paired with an intelligent SERM protocol, HCG becomes the ultimate endocrine primer, preparing your body for total hormonal restoration.
💡 Elite Strategy: Think of your PCT as a two-phase operation:
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Phase 1 (HCG): Wake up the testicles
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Phase 2 (SERMs): Reconnect the hypothalamic signals and sustain T production
Only by respecting both phases will you retain your gains, protect your health, and be ready to return stronger next cycle—or even go natural, if you choose.