What is Post Cycle Therapy and why is it important?
After completing a course of drugs or supplements, it is important to undergo a controlled follow-up treatment known as post cycle therapy (PCT) to restore hormonal balance in the body. This is necessary for any substances, including prescription drugs, over the counter products, dietary or nutritional supplements, and even anabolic androgenic steroids, that cause significant changes in the body. PCT aims to neutralize the biochemical changes caused by these substances and restore hormones to their optimal levels. However, it is important to note that PCT should not reverse the positive developments achieved through the use of drugs, steroids, or supplements.
The Importance of Post Cycle Therapy
Post cycle therapy (PCT) is a crucial step in the process of using anabolic androgenic steroids, as it helps to stabilize and restore hormones that may have been suppressed during the steroid cycle. These hormones, particularly testosterone, are important for maintaining the positive effects achieved through steroid use, such as increased strength and endurance, improved power, and muscle building. Without PCT, the body may lose these improvements and the suppressed hormones may not be restored naturally. Therefore, it is important to undergo PCT to help the body retain the benefits of steroid use and to properly restore suppressed hormones. This can be achieved through the use of drugs, supplements, and lifestyle changes as part of the PCT process.
Common Post Cycle Therapy Options
Two commonly used options for post cycle therapy (PCT) are Clomid or clomiphene citrate and Nolvadex or Tamoxifen. These agents work by blocking estrogen in the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, leading to negative feedback inhibition. This can help restore natural testosterone levels in the body. There are also other drugs and agents that can serve a similar purpose. Male users may also use drugs to increase follicle stimulating hormones and luteinizing hormones, which stimulate the testes to produce more testosterone. It is important to discuss the best PCT options with a medical professional, as the right approach will vary depending on the individual and the specific steroids or supplements used.
Standard Protocol for Post Cycle Therapy with Nolvadex and Clomid
For post cycle therapy (PCT) using Nolvadex, the standard protocol is to take 100mg on the first day, followed by 60mg per day for the next ten days, and then 40mg per day for the following ten days. This totals a twenty-one day PCT cycle. However, the specific dosage and duration may vary based on factors such as the length and potency of the steroid cycle and the extent of muscle development achieved.
Clomid can also be taken for the same duration, but if used in combination with Nolvadex, the dosage should be adjusted. The recommended protocol is to take 250mg of Clomid on the first day, followed by 100mg per day for the next ten days and 50mg per day for the final ten days. The Nolvadex dosage should also be reduced to 60mg on the first day, 40mg per day for the next ten days, and 20mg per day for the final ten days.
For those who have used multiple steroids during the same cycle (known as “stacking”), the standard protocol for PCT may need to be adjusted. It may be necessary to increase the dosage and alter the course of treatment to properly address the effects of multiple steroids on the body. It is important to consult with a medical professional to determine the best approach for PCT in these situations.
Starting a Post Cycle Therapy
The timing and duration of post cycle therapy (PCT) will depend on the specific steroid being used. For example, Testosterone Enanthate and Testosterone Cypionate may require a three-week PCT starting two weeks after the last time the steroid was taken. Testosterone Propionate may require a PCT starting three days after the last dose, lasting for three weeks. Testosterone Suspension may need a PCT starting eight hours after the last administration, lasting for three weeks.
Sustanon may require a three-week PCT starting three weeks after the last steroid dose. Winstrol may need a PCT starting within twelve hours of the last dose. Dianabol may require a PCT starting eight hours after the last dose. Trenbolone may need a four-week PCT starting three days after the last dose. Deca Durabolin may require a four-week PCT starting three weeks after the last steroid dose. Primobolan depot may need a two-week PCT starting fourteen days after the last dose. Anavar may require a two-week PCT starting ten hours after the last dose. It is important to consult with a medical professional for specific recommendations on the timing and duration of PCT for each individual and steroid.
The Role of HCG in Post Cycle Therapy
Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (HCG) is a peptide hormone that has been used by bodybuilders to prevent or manage testicular atrophy during or after a steroid cycle. While HCG was once believed to aid in the restoration of testosterone, more recent research has shown that its effects may not be as significant as previously thought. However, it can still be useful in preventing or managing testicular atrophy. It is important to note that HCG should not be used as part of post cycle therapy, but rather as a separate treatment before the start of PCT. It is always best to consult with a medical professional before using HCG or any other hormone or supplement as part of a steroid cycle or PCT.
Possible Loss of Development during Post Cycle Therapy
It is possible that during post cycle therapy (PCT), users may experience a loss of some of the muscle mass and aesthetic developments achieved through steroid use. These effects may continue even after PCT has been completed. It is important to note that steroids do not have lasting positive effects on the body, and it is inevitable that some of the bulk gained during the steroid cycle will be lost. However, the cuts and sculpted appearance achieved during the cycle can still be retained through regular workouts. It is also important to note that the extent of loss will vary depending on the specific steroids used and the drugs chosen for PCT. It is always best to discuss the potential risks and benefits of steroid use and PCT with a medical professional.