Commonly known as an anti-estrogen, Tamoxifen Citrate functions as both an antagonist and agonist. This indicates that it can act as an anti-estrogen in some parts of the body while acting as an estrogen in others.
This medication is frequently utilized by individuals using anabolic steroids, although it is not a steroid itself. Steroid users might resort to it to alleviate estrogenic side effects caused by certain steroids. However, its primary use is during Post Cycle Therapy (PCT).
Effects of Tamoxifen
For anabolic steroid users, the benefits of Tamoxifen Citrate can be observed both during and after steroid use, with more emphasis on the post-use phase. While Tamoxifen Citrate does not reduce serum estrogen levels, it occupies receptors in the breast tissue, preventing estrogen from binding there. It may not significantly address water retention issues and might not sufficiently guard against gynecomastia for all men, depending on individual estrogen levels and genetic factors. For additional protection, Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs) may be advisable.
Another effect of Tamoxifen Citrate is its ability to stimulate testosterone production. This is particularly vital for anabolic steroid users, as anabolic steroids suppress natural testosterone production, regardless of the type used. To counteract the resulting low testosterone levels, most steroid cycles include external testosterone. Once steroid use concludes, something is necessary to reinitiate testosterone production, which naturally occurs but is often slow; Tamoxifen can enhance and expedite this process.
For breast cancer patients, the impact of Tamoxifen Citrate is more clear-cut than for anabolic steroid users. Since estrogen contributes to cancer growth, Tamoxifen Citrate inhibits its binding, effectively starving the cancer. This straightforward yet potent treatment method is not the only medication employed; typically, treatment begins with an AI, which may then transition to a SERM like Tamoxifen Citrate. Additionally, it is sometimes utilized as a preventive measure for individuals with a strong family history of breast cancer.
Possible Side Effects:Headaches, nausea, hot flashes, vaginal itching, bleeding, unusual discharge or discomfort, rashes, reduced white blood cell count, endometrial changes, increased triglyceride levels, and risk of pulmonary embolism.Recommended Usage:
In the context of breast cancer treatment, there are six Tamoxifen Citrate regimens suited for both male and female patients. Generally, doses in these plans range from 10-20mg taken twice daily. A common starting dose is 40mg per day (20mg twice daily) during the initial phase of treatment. Many breast cancer patients continue with a regimen of 10-20mg daily for an indefinite period once the cancer is in remission to prevent recurrence.For anabolic steroid users, a standard dosage for gynecomastia prevention during the cycle is around 10-20mg per day. If these doses do not yield benefits, it is unlikely that higher doses will and alternative options like AIs should be contemplated.
Lastly, concerning PCT, most plans commence with daily doses of 40mg of Tamoxifen Citrate for 2-3 weeks, followed by a reduction to 20mg per day for an additional 2-3 weeks. A complete PCT plan may also include another SERM, Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid). For a comprehensive outline on PCT, please refer to the section on How to Come off Steroids.
