Human chorionic gonadotropin treatment: a viable option for management of secondary hypogonadism and male infertility.

Introduction

Low testosterone and its symptoms is a condition affecting many males with severe repercussions on health. Testosterone affects metabolism, bones, joints, and ligaments, the cardiovascular system, liver, sexual functions, muscle mass, and the nervous system. Nowadays, due to recent research showing the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy, this treatment is gaining in popularity among aging men. However, testosterone replacement can increase the risk of infertility. Areas covered: Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is used in the treatment of male infertility due to its luteinizing hormone (LH)-like action triggering testosterone and sperm production. Due to these positive effects on testosterone production, HCG has also been used to treat secondary hypogonadism. In this review, based on a literature review for the years 1977-2020 via Google Scholar, we summarize the current research on HCG as treatment for patients suffering from low testosterone and provide an overview of the pros and contras for HCG therapy as compared to testosterone replacement therapy for the treatment of secondary hypogonadism. Expert opinion: The testosterone and sperm production triggering effects of HCG without the side effects on fertility seen in testosterone replacement therapy make HCG therapy a prime candidate for patients suffering from secondary hypogonadism.