Commonly known as an anti-estrogen, Tamoxifen Citrate functions as both an antagonist and agonist. This indicates that it can block estrogen in some areas of the body while mimicking its action in others.
Although many anabolic steroid users utilize this medication, it is important to note that Tamoxifen is not a steroid itself. Users may take it during steroid cycles to alleviate estrogen-related side effects caused by specific steroids, but it is predominantly used during Post Cycle Therapy (PCT).
Effects of Tamoxifen
For users of anabolic steroids, Tamoxifen Citrate can provide beneficial effects both during and after steroid cycles, with a greater emphasis on post-cycle benefits. While Tamoxifen Citrate does not reduce serum estrogen levels, it binds to receptors in the breast, preventing estrogen from attaching. It may not effectively mitigate water retention and might not offer sufficient gynecomastia protection for all men, as this depends on individual estrogen levels and genetics. For enhanced protection, Aromatase Inhibitors (AI's) are recommended.
Another significant effect of Tamoxifen Citrate is its ability to stimulate testosterone. This effect is critical for anabolic steroid users, as steroid use typically suppresses natural testosterone production. To counteract this, steroid cycles usually include exogenous testosterone to prevent low testosterone levels. After completing a steroid cycle, Tamoxifen can help to quickly restart testosterone production, enhancing both the speed and efficiency of the process.
For breast cancer patients, the role of Tamoxifen Citrate is clear-cut: it inhibits estrogen from binding to cancer cells, effectively starving the cancer. This straightforward yet powerful approach to treatment may be combined with other medications, starting with an Aromatase Inhibitor before transitioning to a Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM) like Tamoxifen Citrate. It can also serve as a preventive measure for those with a significant family history of breast cancer.
Side effects:Common side effects include headaches, nausea, hot flashes, vaginal itching, bleeding or discharge, rash, decreased white blood cell count, changes in the endometrium, elevated triglyceride levels, and the risk of pulmonary embolism.How to use:
In treating breast cancer, there are six Tamoxifen Citrate treatment plans for both men and women. Typically, dosages range from 10-20mg twice daily. A common initial dosage is 40mg per day (20mg twice daily). Many breast cancer patients may also continue taking 10-20mg per day indefinitely once in remission to prevent relapse.For anabolic steroid users, the standard dosage for preventing gynecomastia during a cycle is also 10-20mg daily. If this range is ineffective, stronger alternatives like Aromatase Inhibitors should be considered.
Regarding PCT, most plans start with doses of Tamoxifen Citrate at 40mg daily for 2-3 weeks, followed by a reduction to 20mg daily for another 2-3 weeks. A comprehensive PCT program often includes another SERM, Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid). For detailed PCT guidelines, refer to “How to Come off Steroids.”