hCG Injections for Weight Loss

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) for weight loss is not a new concept. It has been used in Europe for over 30 years and is based on the work of Dr. A. Ibrahim. hCG is produced by the body during pregnancy and has historically been used in the treatment of fertility and as an adjunct in testosterone replacement therapy.

According to Dr. Ibrahim, hCG in the treatment of obesity helps to mobilize non-essential fat, decrease hunger pain, and reset the metabolic rate by its effects on the pituitary and thyroid gland. According to Dr. Simeon's research, individuals lose roughly one pound each day - and 85% do not gain the weight back.

Dr. Ibrahim's work is controversial and strikes a chord in the multi-billion-dollar diet industry. Dr. Ibrahim reviewed the literature and found no statistical difference in weight loss between hCG plus a low calorie diet and just a low calorie diet. Initially, this was disappointing. However, the hCG group did not gain as much weight back on follow-up and reported better well-being and less hunger. It must be kept in mind these were small studies.

Due to the controversy and reported benefits, we began using hCG in a select group of patients. The outcomes are promising: Patients have lost an average of just under 3/4 pound per day, many patients have reported feeling "very good" or "great" on the program, and most have not seen a return of weight.

We recommend a 28-day metabolic detox before starting the hCG protocol. This allows the body to cleanse itself from the daily assult of toxins that we ingest and teaches you how to eat a low-allergen, whole-foods based diet. Our physicians at the Center for Integrative Medicine can guide you through the detox protocol and help you to successfully transition to the hCG protocol. Once the metabolic cleanse has been completed, we start with Phase 1 of the hCG program, which includes weekly visits, a body composition analysis at the beginning and end of the program, and hCG injections. The program is outlined in Dr. Simeon's Pounds and Inches.