Tamoxifen Citrate is commonly known as an anti-estrogen, but it functions as both an antagonist and an agonist. This means that it can inhibit estrogen in some parts of the body while acting like estrogen in others.
This medication is frequently used by individuals who take anabolic steroids, although it is not classified as a steroid itself. Steroid users may use it to alleviate estrogen-related side effects caused by certain anabolic steroids. Its primary application, however, is during Post Cycle Therapy (PCT).
Effects of Tamoxifen
For anabolic steroid users, the advantages of Tamoxifen Citrate can be observed during and after steroid use, with the latter being more significant. While Tamoxifen Citrate does not lower serum estrogen levels, it binds to estrogen receptors in breast tissue to prevent estrogen from binding there. It has limited effect on water retention, and may not provide sufficient protection against gynecomastia for everyone; this varies based on the height of estrogen levels and individual genetics. If greater protection is required, Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs) are advised.
Additionally, Tamoxifen Citrate has testosterone-stimulating effects, which are particularly crucial for anabolic steroid users. The use of anabolic steroids suppresses natural testosterone production, a common occurrence regardless of the steroids taken. This is the reason why most steroid cycles incorporate exogenous testosterone to avoid falling testosterone levels. After completing a steroid cycle, something is needed to reactivate testosterone production. Although this can happen naturally, it may be slow, and Tamoxifen can enhance both the speed and efficiency of this process.
For breast cancer patients, the effect of Tamoxifen Citrate is more direct. Since estrogen promotes the growth of cancer cells, Tamoxifen Citrate stops estrogen from attaching to the cancer cells, effectively starving them. This is a straightforward yet effective treatment method. Typically, treatment may start with an Aromatase Inhibitor followed by a SERM like Tamoxifen Citrate. It is also sometimes utilized preventively for individuals with a strong family history of breast cancer.
Potential Side Effects:Possible side effects include headaches, upset stomach, hot flashes, vaginal itching, bleeding, discharge or discomfort, rash, reduced white blood cell count, changes in the endometrium, elevated triglyceride levels, and pulmonary embolism.Usage Guidelines:
In the context of breast cancer treatment, there are six Tamoxifen Citrate protocols for both male and female patients. In any of these protocols, typical dosing ranges from 10-20mg administered twice daily. A common initial dose is 40mg per day (20mg twice daily). Many breast cancer patients may continue with 10-20mg per day indefinitely once in remission to prevent recurrence.For anabolic steroid users seeking to prevent gynecomastia, 10-20mg daily is standard. If this dosage does not effectively prevent issues, there is a low likelihood that higher doses will help, and AI options should be strongly considered.
Finally, for PCT usage, most plans start with a daily dose of 40mg of Tamoxifen Citrate for 2-3 weeks, followed by a reduction to 20mg per day for another 2-3 weeks. A proper PCT regimen often includes another SERM, Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid). For detailed guidance on PCT, refer to How to Come off Steroids.