How does HMG differ from HCG?

HCG mimics LH activity alone, whereas HMG supplies both FSH and LH bioactivity, making it useful when follicle-stimulating signal is also required.

Why is HMG used alongside HCG in male fertility research?

HCG drives intratesticular testosterone via the LH pathway, while the FSH in HMG supports the Sertoli-cell environment needed for sperm maturation; combined they more fully reconstitute spermatogenesis.

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Sexual Health

Clinical

HMG (Human Menopausal Gonadotropin)

Also known as: HMG, Human Menopausal Gonadotropin

Human menopausal gonadotropin (menotropin) is a purified preparation of the pituitary gonadotropins FSH and LH, historically extracted from the urine of postmenopausal women. It is used clinically to stimulate gametogenesis and gonadal steroid production in fertility settings.

Mechanism of Action

HMG delivers roughly equal bioactivity of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). FSH binds Sertoli-cell and granulosa-cell FSH receptors to drive spermatogenesis and follicular maturation, while the LH component activates Leydig-cell and theca-cell LH receptors to stimulate testosterone and androstenedione synthesis. By providing both signals, HMG reproduces the downstream output of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, supporting follicle recruitment in women and intratesticular testosterone with sperm production in men.

Half-life: FSH component roughly 24-36 hours; LH component shorter at several hours
Administration Routes: subcutaneous, intramuscular
Research Status: Clinical