How to Use HMG
Complete guide to HMG dosing, administration, timing, and protocol recommendations.
Quick Overview
HMG (human menopausal gonadotropin, sold as menotropins under the brand Menopur) is a purified hormone mix extracted from the urine of postmenopausal women. Each standard vial carries 75 IU of FSH activity and 75 IU of LH activity, with most of the LH activity coming from hCG. It is an FDA-approved fertility drug used to stimulate egg development in IVF, and it is also used, mostly off-label in the US, together with hCG to kick-start sperm production in men whose pituitary does not make enough FSH and LH. This one has decades of real clinical use behind it.
Dosing Guidelines
Common Dose
225 IU daily (women, IVF start); 75-150 IU 2-3x weekly with hCG (men, off-label)
Frequency
Daily in IVF; 2-3x weekly in male protocols
Dose Range
75-450 IU per dose depending on protocol
Note: Dosing is set and adjusted by a fertility specialist using ultrasound and estradiol (women) or semen analysis and hormone levels (men). In men, HMG is normally added after a period of hCG alone if sperm production does not start.
Administration Method
Subcutaneous injection (Menopur); intramuscular in some older male protocols
Best Time to Take
Same time each day (IVF) or on fixed weekly days (male protocols)
Consistent timing keeps hormone levels steady and makes monitoring easier. Many fertility clinics schedule injections in the evening, but the label does not require a specific time.
Protocol Duration
Up to 20 days per IVF cycle; many months (often 6-24) for sperm induction in men
Possible Side Effects
Not everyone experiences these. Individual responses vary.
- •Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which can be serious (women)
- •Multiple pregnancy (twins or more) (women)
- •Abdominal pain, bloating and pelvic discomfort
- •Headache
- •Nausea
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recommended dose for HMG?
225 IU daily (women, IVF start); 75-150 IU 2-3x weekly with hCG (men, off-label)
How do you administer HMG?
Subcutaneous injection (Menopur); intramuscular in some older male protocols
When is the best time to take HMG?
Same time each day (IVF) or on fixed weekly days (male protocols)
How long should you use HMG?
Up to 20 days per IVF cycle; many months (often 6-24) for sperm induction in men
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any peptide. Dosing information is based on research literature and community reports, not medical advice.