Commonly identified as an anti-estrogen, Tamoxifen Citrate functions as both an antagonist and agonist. This indicates that it can block estrogen in certain areas of the body while mimicking estrogen in others.
This medication is popular among anabolic steroid users, even though it is not a steroid itself. Users may utilize this drug during their steroid cycles to mitigate estrogen-related side effects caused by specific steroids but it is primarily employed in Post Cycle Therapy (PCT).
Effects of Tamoxifen
For users of anabolic steroids, the benefits of Tamoxifen Citrate manifest during and after the use of steroids, with the post-use benefits being more significant. Although it does not decrease serum estrogen levels, it binds to receptors in the breast tissue, inhibiting estrogen from attaching. This might not adequately address water retention issues. Furthermore, its effectiveness in preventing gynecomastia may not be sufficient for all individuals, which can vary based on estrogen levels and genetics. In cases where stronger protection is necessary, Aromatase Inhibitors (AI’s) are advisable.
Additionally, Tamoxifen Citrate has testosterone-stimulating properties, which are vital for anabolic steroid users. The use of anabolic steroids typically suppresses natural testosterone production, regardless of the type of steroid used. This is why nearly all steroid cycles incorporate exogenous testosterone to prevent significant drops in testosterone levels. After completing a steroid cycle, support is required to reactivate testosterone production. While this will eventually normalize on its own, the process can be slow, and Tamoxifen can expedite and enhance its efficiency.
For breast cancer patients, the effects of Tamoxifen Citrate are perhaps clearer compared to anabolic steroid users. Since estrogen fuels cancer growth, Tamoxifen Citrate serves to block estrogen's attachment, effectively starving the cancer. This straightforward yet efficient treatment method is typically supplemented by the initial use of an AI before transitioning to a SERM like Tamoxifen Citrate. It is also occasionally used as a preventative treatment for individuals with a significant family history of breast cancer.
Side effects:Headaches, nausea, hot flashes, vaginal itching, bleeding or discharge, skin rash, reduced white blood cell counts, endometrial changes, elevated triglyceride levels, pulmonary embolism.How to use:
In the context of breast cancer treatment, there are six Tamoxifen Citrate administration plans that include both male and female therapies. For any of these regimens, the typical dosage ranges from 10-20mg taken twice daily. A common initial dosage is 40mg daily (20mg twice per day) during the early phase of treatment. Many breast cancer patients may continue with 10-20mg daily indefinitely once remission is achieved to prevent recurrence.For anabolic steroid users, a dosage of 10-20mg per day is standard for preventing gynecomastia during cycles. If this dosage does not prove effective, it is advisable to consider AI’s.
Lastly, in terms of PCT use, most plans start with 40mg of Tamoxifen Citrate per day and maintain this dose for 2-3 weeks. Subsequently, the dosage is reduced to 20mg per day for another 2-3 weeks. A comprehensive PCT plan often includes another SERM, Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid). For an extensive guide on PCT, refer to How to Come off Steroids.