Chorionic gonadotropin injection is a hormone used as a fertility drug to develop eggs in women who have been unable to conceive because of problems with ovulation. It is also used to help men with a low sperm count produce more sperm and to help when the testicles are not retracted into the scrotum, which is caused by a problem with the pituitary gland.

Chorionic gonadotropin is a drug that has almost the same action as luteinising hormone (LH), which is produced by the pituitary gland. It is a hormone that is also normally produced by the placenta during pregnancy. Chorionic gonadotropin has different uses for women and men.

In women, chorionic gonadotropin is used to promote conception. It is usually given in combination with other drugs, such as menotropins and urofollitropin. Many women treated with these drugs have already tried to conceive with clomiphene alone, but have not yet succeeded. Chorionic gonadotropin is also used in in vitro fertilisation (IVF) programmes.

In men, LH and chorionic gonadotropin stimulate the testes to produce male hormones, such as testosterone. Testosterone causes the enlargement of the penis and testicles and the growth of pubic and axillary hair. It also increases sperm production.

Although chorionic gonadotropin has been prescribed to help some patients lose weight, it should never be used in this way. When used incorrectly, chorionic gonadotropin can cause serious problems.