Tamoxifen Citrate, commonly recognized as an anti-estrogen, functions as both an antagonist and agonist. This dual role allows it to block estrogen in some body areas while mimicking its effects in others.
While many anabolic steroid users take this medication, it is not classified as a steroid. It is often utilized during steroid cycles to mitigate estrogen-related side effects caused by certain steroids, although it is primarily used in Post Cycle Therapy (PCT).
Effects of Tamoxifen:
Users of anabolic steroids may experience beneficial effects from Tamoxifen Citrate both during and after steroid use, with the post-use advantages being more significant. Although Tamoxifen does not decrease serum estrogen levels, it attaches to receptors in breast tissue, obstructing estrogen from binding. It may not sufficiently address water retention issues and may not offer enough protection against gynecomastia for all men, which depends on individual estrogen levels and genetics. Those requiring additional protection might consider Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs).
Tamoxifen Citrate also has testosterone-boosting effects, which is especially crucial for anabolic steroid users. The use of anabolic steroids depresses natural testosterone production, making it common for steroid cycles to include exogenous testosterone to prevent low testosterone levels. Following steroid use, Tamoxifen can accelerate and enhance the recovery of testosterone production, although it will resume on its own at a slower rate.
In the case of breast cancer treatment, the effects of Tamoxifen Citrate are clearer than in steroid use. Since estrogen promotes cancer growth, Tamoxifen inhibits estrogen from binding, effectively starving the cancer cells. While this is a common treatment strategy, it is typically combined with other medications such as Aromatase Inhibitors and may also be used for preventative purposes in individuals with a strong familial breast cancer history.
Side effects:
Possible side effects include headaches, nausea, hot flashes, vaginal itching, bleeding, discharge or discomfort, skin rash, lower white blood cell count, endometrial changes, elevated triglyceride levels, and risk of pulmonary embolism.
How to use:
For breast cancer treatment, there are six dosing regimens for Tamoxifen Citrate applicable to both males and females, generally involving doses of 10-20 mg twice a day. A typical initial dosage is 40 mg per day (20 mg twice daily). Many breast cancer patients may also continue with a maintenance dose of 10-20 mg per day indefinitely once in remission to prevent recurrence.In the context of anabolic steroid use, for gynecomastia prevention during a cycle, the standard dosage is also 10-20 mg per day. If this range is ineffective, the use of AIs should be seriously considered.
For Post Cycle Therapy, it is common to start with Tamoxifen Citrate at 40 mg per day for the first 2-3 weeks, followed by a reduction to 20 mg per day for another 2-3 weeks. A comprehensive PCT plan often includes another Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM) like Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid). For detailed information on proper PCT, refer to "How to Come off Steroids."
