Overview
HMG is classified as a PCT (post-cycle therapy) and ancillary compound. Contains both LH and FSH activity.
With a half-life of ~1.5 days (36 hours), HMG supports less frequent dosing schedules. Administered via SubQ and IM injection, it has a bioavailability of approximately 95% via its primary route.
Half-life approximately 36 hours. Provides dual gonadotropin stimulation compared to HCG (LH only). One-compartment model.
Mechanism of Action
HMG's pharmacological activity involves the following key pathways:
Gonadotropin Activity
HMG provides exogenous gonadotropin stimulation, directly activating receptors in gonadal tissue.
LH/FSH Mimicry
HMG mimics the activity of endogenous gonadotropins, stimulating target tissue function.
Dosing Protocols
The following protocols represent commonly observed dosing patterns. These are observational summaries, not recommendations.
Dose
75 IU
Route
Subcutaneous
Frequency
Every other day
Duration
4-8 weeks
Dose
150 IU
Route
Subcutaneous
Frequency
Every other day
Duration
4-8 weeks
Reconstitution Steps
HMG is supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder and requires reconstitution before use. Common vial sizes: 75 IU, 150 IU.
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1
Gather supplies
You will need your HMG vial (lyophilized powder), a vial of sterile water or bacteriostatic water, an insulin syringe, alcohol swabs, and a sharps container. Check your specific product instructions — some HMG kits come pre-packaged with a diluent ampoule.
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2
Clean and prep
Wipe the rubber stoppers or break open the diluent ampoule using the provided file or snap-cap. Swab rubber-topped vials with an alcohol swab and allow to air-dry for 10–15 seconds.
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3
Draw diluent
Draw 1 mL of the supplied diluent or bacteriostatic water into your syringe. HMG vials are typically 75 IU or 150 IU — reconstituting with 1 mL gives a simple concentration of 75 IU/mL or 150 IU/mL respectively.
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4
Add water to HMG
Slowly inject the diluent down the inner wall of the HMG vial. Swirl gently until the powder fully dissolves — do not shake vigorously as HMG is more fragile than HCG. The solution should be clear and colourless.
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5
Use promptly and store
HMG is less stable in solution than HCG. Use within 24–48 hours of reconstitution and store at 2–8°C during that window. Do not freeze. If using same-day, the vial can be held at room temperature briefly prior to injection.
Quick Reconstitution Math
For a 75 IU vial reconstituted with 1 mL: each 0.1 mL (10 units on an insulin syringe) = 7.5 IU. For a 150 IU vial with 1 mL: each 0.1 mL = 15 IU. A full 75 IU dose from the 75 IU/mL solution = 1 mL (entire vial). Use the Milligram reconstitution calculator for custom vial sizes.
Reconstituted HMG is stable for only 24–48 hours refrigerated at 2–8°C — significantly shorter than HCG. Lyophilized powder should be refrigerated and kept away from light. Never freeze either form.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HMG and how does it differ from HCG?
HMG (Human Menopausal Gonadotropin), also called Menotropin, is a urinary-derived preparation containing both FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH activity, typically in a 1:1 ratio. Unlike HCG, which only provides LH-like activity, HMG delivers both FSH and LH signalling – making it particularly relevant when sperm production (spermatogenesis) is the goal, as FSH plays a direct role in Sertoli cell function and sperm maturation.
What is HMG used for in male hormone protocols?
In males, HMG is primarily used to stimulate spermatogenesis in hypogonadal men, particularly those whose fertility has been impaired by exogenous hormone use or natural hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. The FSH component supports Sertoli cell function and sperm maturation, while the LH component stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone. It is sometimes added to HCG-based protocols when sperm production recovery is a priority after a suppressive cycle.
What is the typical HMG dosing protocol?
Clinical dosing for male hypogonadism and fertility treatment commonly ranges from 75–150 IU administered three times per week via SubQ or IM injection. HMG has a half-life of approximately 24 hours, aligning well with an every-other-day or three-times-weekly schedule. It is frequently co-administered with HCG rather than used as a standalone compound, with the combination providing both LH and FSH signals simultaneously.
Does HMG require refrigeration?
Yes – lyophilized HMG powder should be stored refrigerated at 2–8°C, and once reconstituted it should be used within 24–48 hours as HMG is less stable in solution than HCG. Some formulations specify same-day use after reconstitution. The product should never be frozen and should be protected from light at all stages of storage.
How long does HMG take to improve sperm parameters?
Spermatogenesis is a slow process – a full cycle of sperm development takes approximately 74 days in humans. Measurable improvements in sperm count and motility after starting HMG are generally not observed before 8–12 weeks of consistent treatment. Hormonal markers such as testosterone and FSH levels respond more quickly, typically within 1–2 weeks, confirming biological activity while structural improvements to sperm parameters lag behind.
Can HMG be used alongside HCG?
Yes, HMG and HCG are commonly combined in fertility and PCT protocols. HCG provides robust LH-mimetic activity to drive Leydig cell testosterone production, while HMG adds the FSH component needed for Sertoli cell support and sperm maturation. The combination addresses both axes of testicular function simultaneously – a common arrangement is HCG 500–1,000 IU twice weekly paired with HMG 75–150 IU three times weekly.