HCG is a glycoprotein hormone structurally similar to luteinizing hormone (LH). It binds to the same LH receptors in testicular Leydig cells, stimulating endogenous testosterone production[1]. Unlike endogenous LH (which has a 30‑minute half‑life), HCG’s extended 36‑hour half‑life provides sustained gonadal stimulation[2]. This makes it effective for maintaining testicular function during exogenous testosterone therapy, where natural LH production is suppressed. Studies show that low‑dose HCG (250–500 IU every other day) maintains intratesticular testosterone at near‑baseline levels in men receiving testosterone therapy[4]. Higher doses (1,500–5,000 IU multiple times weekly) are used to restore spermatogenesis and endogenous testosterone production in cases of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism or post‑anabolic steroid recovery[5][6].