Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a female hormone that is produced naturally in pregnant women. In women, HCG is also used as a fertility drug. The drug is also used by male athletes to help their body's make testosterone following a course of steroid use.
In May 2009, the Los Angeles Dodgers' Manny Ramirez was suspended for 50 games after he was found to have used a drug on the list of banned substances. It was later reported that he tested positive for HCG.The New York Times: Dodgers' Ramirez Is Banned for 50 Games (May 7, 2009)
Manny Ramirez HCG
On May 7, 2009, it was reported the the Los Angeles Dodgers' Manny Ramirez had been suspended for 50 games after testing positive for a banned substance. The substance was HCG. Ramirez said that the substance was prescribed for a personal health issue.The New York Times: Dodgers' Ramirez Is Banned for 50 Games (May 7, 2009)
References
Fast Facts
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Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a natural hormone made by an embryo and placenta during pregnancyWebMD: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)
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HCG levels are often tested during pregnancy to screen for birth defectsWebMD: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)
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HCG is sometimes used by athletes as a performance enhancing drug
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Sometimes used in combination with anabolic androgenic steroids
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HCG is considered illegal on the lists of forbidden drugs in sports
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