HCG Weight-Loss Program Side Effects

Human chorionic gonadotropin, or HCG, is a hormone produced once an embryo is present in a woman's uterus for the production of progesterone. This hormone is crucial in creating a safe environment for the fetus to attach and grow. Production of HCG is either synthetic or from pregnant women's urine. HCG is also used by some as part of a weight-loss program, and injecting this hormone can cause side effects.

Approved Uses

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved HCG for fertility issues, for doctors to prescribe to women having difficulty becoming pregnant. The FDA did not approve HCG for weight reduction. Studies in the 1970s did not conclude that the use of HCG for weight loss was effective.

The Diet

In order to lose weight using HCG injections, a strict 500-calorie diet must be followed. The persuasive argument is that anyone will lose weight on such a diet, even if not obese. A safe diet is generally not less than 1,200 to 1,500 calories.

The common statement in most clinics and websites marketing HCG is that your body will be using fat instead of muscle in the weight-reduction process. HCG supposedly resets the hypothyroid gland, causing the metabolism to burn stored fat faster. While this sounds good, there are no studies proving this is true.

Safety Issues in Fertility

Although the dose given for fertility is higher than the dose used in the diet, it is important to note the safety issues. Some women using HCG for fertility purposes have reported allergy symptoms such as hives, breathing problems, and swelling in the lips, throat, face and tongue.

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, or OHSS, is a life-threatening condition linked to injections of HCG. Symptoms of OHSS include intense pain in the pelvis, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, decrease in urination, or swollen legs, hands or stomach. If any of these symptoms occur, stop using HCG and call your doctor.

Side Effects in Dieting

The significant side effects of HCG injections for weight loss include depression, swollen or sore breasts, headaches, and edema, which is retention of fluid. The future effects from taking daily doses of HCG for dieting are unknown.

Pregnancy

To avoid birth defects, do not use HCG for weight loss if you are pregnant. Contact your doctor if you become pregnant while using HCG. Nursing mothers must not use HCG.

Using HCG Safely

It is recommended that you purchase HCG from a clinic, where you will be shown how to use and dispose of the syringes properly. In addition, you will learn what to look for in case your medication has gone bad, such as particles in the liquid.

Drug Interactions

Your doctor is best suited to advise you of any possible drug interactions if you are taking medication or herbal therapy. If you a history of cancer, heart or kidney disease, or ovarian cysts, your doctor may advise against HCG for weight loss.

As with the introduction of any new diet, consult your family physician and go over all the possible safety concerns prior to taking HCG.