TamoximedActive ingredient: Tamoxifen CitrateAlso known as: Tamoxifene, Nolvadex, Tamox, Tamoximed, SoltamoxActive half-life 5-7 days
Commonly described as an anti-estrogen, Tamoxifen Citrate functions as both an antagonist and agonist. This means it behaves as an anti-estrogen in specific regions of the body while mimicking estrogen in others.
It is a medication frequently utilized by anabolic steroid users, although it is not classified as a steroid itself. Users often take it during steroid cycles to alleviate estrogen-related side effects from certain steroids; nonetheless, it is primarily employed during Post Cycle Therapy (PCT).
Effects of Tamoxifen
For anabolic steroid users, the beneficial effects of Tamoxifen Citrate are noticeable both during and after anabolic steroid use, with a greater impact observed post-use. While Tamoxifen Citrate does not lower serum estrogen levels, it binds to receptors in the breast tissue, inhibiting estrogen from binding. However, it may not significantly alleviate water retention issues. Additionally, it doesn't provide adequate gynecomastia protection for all men, as this largely depends on individual estrogen levels and genetic factors. If stronger protection is necessary, Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs) may be more effective.
Tamoxifen Citrate also has testosterone-stimulating effects, which are particularly crucial for anabolic steroid users. The use of anabolic steroids suppresses natural testosterone production, which occurs regardless of the type of steroids used. Thus, most steroid cycles include additional testosterone to counteract the risk of low testosterone levels due to negative feedback. After completing a steroid cycle, initiating testosterone production is essential. Although it can start naturally, this process is often slow, and Tamoxifen can accelerate and improve its efficiency.
For breast cancer patients, the action of Tamoxifen Citrate is more straightforward. Estrogen promotes cancer growth, but Tamoxifen Citrate blocks estrogen from attaching to cancer cells, effectively starving them. This is a simple but efficient therapeutic approach. Treatment often begins with an AI and may later transition to a SERM like Tamoxifen Citrate. Additionally, it can be prescribed as a preventative measure for individuals with a strong family history of breast cancer.
Side effects:Possible side effects include headaches, nausea, hot flashes, vaginal itching, bleeding or discomfort, rashes, decreased white blood cell count, changes in the endometrium, elevated triglyceride levels, and the risk of pulmonary embolism.Recommended usage:
In the context of breast cancer treatment, there are six Tamoxifen Citrate protocols that apply to both male and female patients. Generally, doses range from 10-20mg taken twice daily. A total daily dose of 40mg (20mg twice daily) is typical during the initial phase of treatment. Many breast cancer patients may continue with a maintenance dose of 10-20mg daily indefinitely once the cancer is in remission, to prevent recurrence.For anabolic steroid users, the standard dosage for gynecomastia prevention during cycles is 10-20mg per day. If this dosage does not alleviate symptoms, it is unlikely that increasing the dose will be effective, and AIs should be considered.
For Post Cycle Therapy (PCT), most plans start with a dosage of 40mg per day for 2-3 weeks, which is then reduced to 20mg per day for an additional 2-3 weeks. An effective PCT regimen often includes another SERM, such as Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid). For a comprehensive outline of a PCT protocol, please refer to "How to Come off Steroids."