If you’ve ever dabbled in the world of performance-enhancing drug use, then you’re no stranger to post-cycle therapy (PCT), and chances are, you have heard of Nolvadex. This powerful anti-estrogen medication has proven to be a game-changer for many bodybuilders and athletes looking to get their bodies back to normal after using anabolics – but navigating PCT with Nolvadex isn’t always easy.
With so much misinformation out there on the topic, it’s important for users to have access to reliable information about dosages, timing, and potential risks when it comes to Nolvadex use during Post Cycle Therapy. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about using Nolvadex effectively during PCT, helping you maximize gains while mitigating negative side effects.
What is Nolvadex and why do bodybuilders use it?
What is Nolvadex?
Nolvadex (Tamoxifen citrate) is a SERM (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator) that was initially developed to treat breast cancer. It works by binding to the estrogen receptors, which also increases the levels of two important hormones, LH (Luteinizing Hormone) and FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone).
Because of this, bodybuilders commonly use as SERM such as Nolvadex during their Post Cycle phase. By jump starting the creation of LH and FSH, the body is able to recover faster between cycles and retain muscle mass that would normally be lost during PCT.
The science behind Nolvadex and PCT
How Tamoxifen Works
Using performance-enhancing drugs can have various consequences, especially when it comes to estrogen-related side-effects. When too much estrogen binds to receptors inside the body, gynecomastia becomes a real issue that you need to worry about.
Nolvadex binds itself to estrogen receptors in certain tissues like breast tissue. This prevents the hormone from initiating processes related to cell growth, which in turn prevents gyno from forming.
Additionally, tamoxifen stimulates the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which are critical components in restoring natural testosterone levels after a cycle. It does this by interacting with the pituitary gland, which is responsible for the release of luteinizing hormone (LH). LH stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone naturally.
The proper administration of Nolvadex PCT requires careful consideration regarding dosages, timing and potential interactions with other supplements/medications. So let’s address those things next.
How to properly use Nolvadex in your PCT
Dosage and Timing
Dosage and timing play a huge role in getting the most out of Nolvadex for PCT, which is why it’s important to do your research and plan your cycle ahead of time. How much Nolva to use depends on several factors such as age, weight, cycle duration and intensity, among others.
For instance, higher doses may be required for those who have undergone longer or more intense cycles. For people using Testosterone or other injectables, it’s not uncommon to take 60mg for 8 weeks.
For SARMs cycles, I like keeping things on the lower side, around 20mg a day. If you feel like your body needs more, you can use 40 mg per day for the first week and then lower it to 20 mg per day in the following weeks. Studies show that it takes about 5 weeks to recover natty T levels after using SARMs, which is why I recommend a 4 to 6 week period for PCT.
In terms of timing, starting your PCT with Nolvadex too early or too late can significantly affect its effectiveness. If you’re using traditional anabolic steroids such as Testosterone or Trenbolone, you will want to wait until the compounds clear from your body before starting PCT.
For enanthate and similar timed esters, I recommend two weeks before starting PCT.
For SARMs, I start my PCT the day after my cycle ends. SARMs have relatively short half lives, so there’s no point in waiting to start.
Potential risks and side effects of Nolvadex to be aware of
Side Effects
While Nolvadex has proven to be an effective medication for post-cycle therapy, there are potential side effects and risks that users should be aware of. One common side effect is hot flashes, which can be particularly annoying at night.
If you’ve ever experienced tren sweats, then you know what I am talking about.
Additionally, some users may experience mood swings or depression while using Nolvadex. Long-term use can increase the risk of cataracts and other eye problems, as well as liver damage. In rare cases, individuals may develop blood clots or endometrial cancer.
To minimize these risks, it’s important to follow dosage guidelines carefully and consult with a healthcare professional before beginning PCT with Nolvadex. Users should also monitor their symptoms closely – if they experience any unusual side effects or symptoms while taking the medication, they should seek medical attention immediately.
With proper caution and monitoring, however, many athletes have found Nolvadex to be a valuable tool in managing post-cycle hormone levels safely and effectively. Personally, I have never experienced side effects from taking tamoxifen, and I have taken it plenty of times.
Combining Tamoxifen with other PCT drugs
Stacking Nolvadex
When it comes to combining Nolvadex with other PCT drugs, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you should only be taking multiple SERMs at once if you are coming off of prolonged steroid use. Any other situation, in my opinion, is overkill.
It is true that you can take Clomid and Nolvadex together. Dr. Scally’s “Power PCT” recommends both. But keep in mind that introducing multiple compounds opens you up to more side effects.
Clomid, for example, is known to cause all kinds of emotional side effects. So I would avoid it if you can.
There are some supplements that can be very effective when taken with Nolvadex for PCT. One of them is Fadogia Agretis, which you might recall is main ingredient in HCGenerate. Tongkat Ali is another supplement I would recommend for post cycle.
Where to Buy
Navigating the availability and legality of Nolvadex can add an extra layer of complexity to PCT. In some countries, it may be illegal or difficult to obtain without a prescription, while in others it may be more readily available over-the-counter. It’s important for users to research and understand the laws and regulations regarding Nolvadex in their specific location before attempting to purchase or use the medication.
If you are able to get a script for Nolvadex, then do that. Pharmaceutical grade compounds are always preferred over underground sources! If you’re like me and you don’t have a doctor ready to prescribe whatever you want at a moments notice, you’ll need to find a reputable place to order it online.
One source I can recommend is Swiss Chems! They have been around for a few years and we’ve never had any issues with them in the past.
Swiss Chems Nolvadex
Final thoughts about using Nolvadex for PCT and frequently asked questions
Conclusion + FAQ
Nolvadex is an important part of post-cycle therapy (PCT) for people who use anabolic steroids. It works as an Estrogen Antagonist to stop the bad effects of too much estrogen, like gynecomastia, while also boosting the body’s natural production of testosterone. Nolvadex is often taken with other drugs like Clomid and Aromatase Inhibitors during PCT.
During PCT, it is very important to get the right doses and keep track of them so that side effects are kept to a minimum and the best results are reached. The drugs used in PCT should be chosen based on each person’s needs and with the help of a medical professional.
How much Nolvadex to take for PCT from SARMs?
I recommend 20mg a day for 4 to 6 weeks. Afterwards, wait two weeks and get bloodwork done to make sure your LH, FSH, and Testosterone levels are back to normal.
Which is better, Nolvadex or Clomid?
For SARMs users, Nolvadex is preferred due to it having less side effects than Clomid. With that being said, Clomid is by far the more powerful of the two.
Can I take Nolvadex during my cycle?
If you’re only taking SARMs, I wouldn’t recommend it. There is some evidence that taking a SERM while on SARMs can prevent suppression, but there hasn’t been any documented studies on the matter.
If you have any questions about SERMs, PCT, or SARMs in general, drop me a comment below and I will respond! Thanks for reading and good luck with your cycle.
Literary References
Vermeulen, A., & Comhaire, F. (1978). Hormonal effects of an antiestrogen, tamoxifen, in normal and oligospermic men. Fertility and sterility, 29(3), 320–327. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0015-0282(16)43160-2
Rambhatla, A., Mills, J. N., & Rajfer, J. (2016). The Role of Estrogen Modulators in Male Hypogonadism and Infertility. Reviews in urology, 18(2), 66–72. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5010627/
