human chorionic gonadotropin (APL, hCG)

Introduction

Tradename: A.P.L.

Indications

• induction of ovulation & pregnancy
• treatment of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
• prepubertal cryptorchism

Dosage

• prepubertal cryptorchidism:
  • 1000 to 2000 units/m2 IV 3 times/week for 3 weeks
• hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
  • 500-1000 units/m2 IV 3 times/week for 3 weeks, then
  • 500-1000 units/m2 IV 2 times/week for 3 weeks

Powder for injection:

• • 500, 1000 & 2000 units/mL (10 mL)
  • human origin

Adverse effects

• not common (1-10%)
  • pelvic pain, ovarian cysts, breast enlargement, precocious puberty, pain at the injection site, depression, tiredness, premature closure of epiphysis
• uncommon (< 1%)
  • peripheral edema, ovarian hyperstimulation, irritability, restlessness, fatigue, headache, gynecomastia

Notes

• expressed by syncytiotrophoblastic cells of the placenta during pregnancy

More general terms

• chorionic gonadotropin; choriogonadotropin (APL, hCG)
• endocrine agent

Additional terms

• Lutropin-choriogonadotropic hormone receptor; LH/CG-R; LSH-R; Luteinizing hormone receptor; LHR (LHCGR, LCGR, LGR2 LHRHR)