HCG shots
- What is HCG?
- Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is the major hormone secreted by the placenta of a female during pregnancy. Many individuals recognize it as the hormone that is detected in home pregnancy tests.
- What about “homeopathic” HCG? Why can’t I purchase the HCG at the pharmacy instead?
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is advising consumers to steer clear of “homeopathic” human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) weight-loss products. They are sold in the form of oral drops, pellets and sprays and can be found online and in some retail stores. FDA and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued seven letters to companies warning them that they are selling illegal homeopathic HCG weight-loss drugs that have not been approved by FDA, and that make unsupported claims.FDA advises consumers who have purchased homeopathic HCG for weight loss to stop using it, throw it out, and stop following the dieting instructions. Harmful effects should be reported online to FDA’s MedWatch program or by phone at 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088) and to the consumer’s health care professional.
- What are common side effects of HCG shots?
- The most common side effect is menstrual irregularity, rarely experienced after the 1st or 2nd month of the injection. If excessive bleeding is experienced it is recommended that one discontinue the HCG injections. Rarely, a patient with a history of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) will experience ovarian pain and those with a history of fibrocystic breast tenderness can experience some discomfort. This is usually mild and temporary.
- What is the dosage of HCG received weekly?
- Dispensed dosage is 35 units, subcutaneous (SQ), once a week in the lower right or left quadrant of the abdomen. It is mixed at pharmacist and provider discretion.
- Can they be taken more than once a week?
- Yes, we ask that you start with once weekly injections, 35 units each, the initial month. The injection is recommended to be taken on the same day of the week for consistency. If you decide to increase to twice weekly injections of HCG then the injections must be spaced three days apart. Example: Monday & Thursday OR Tuesday & Friday
- What are the costs?
- Each HCG injection of 35 units is priced at $9 dollars per syringe. Price is subject to change by clinic discretion. Patient will be advised of price changes at check-in.
Appetite Suppressant
- What is an appetite suppressant/ diet pill?
- Anorectics are medications that exhibit three significant effects that make them especially beneficial in weight loss therapy: 1) they take away the desire to eat, 2) they decrease cravings for sweets and starches, and 3) they decrease appetite, allowing patients to feel satisfied with much smaller portions of food.
- What are common side effects of appetite suppressants?
- The most common side effects, are minor and temporary: dry mouth, insomnia (trouble falling asleep), headache, nervousness, dyspepsia (upset stomach/indigestion), increased sweating, acne, hair loss, and menstrual irregularity (increase or decrease in flow). Rare side effects include: chest pain, palpitations, blurred vision and syncope (fainting).
- Who cannot take appetite suppressants?
- As listed by NIH and PDR: advanced arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, moderate to severe hypertension, hyperthyroidism, known hypersensitivity or idiosyncrasy to the sympathomimetic amines, glaucoma. Agitated states. Patients with a history of drug abuse. During or within 14 days following the administration of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (hypertensive crises may result).
- What are the costs for appetite suppressants?
- No appetite suppressant or diet supplements will be dispensed in clinic. We will be glad to give you a prescription to be filled at your local pharmacy of choice. We can also provide you with a list of local prices for reference.