Commonly considered an anti-estrogen, Tamoxifen Citrate functions as both an antagonist and agonist. This indicates that it behaves as an anti-estrogen in specific areas of the body while exhibiting estrogen-like effects in others.
This medication is frequently utilized by various anabolic steroid users, although it is not a steroid itself. Users may take this drug during steroid cycles to manage estrogen-related side effects that arise from specific steroids, but it is primarily used during Post Cycle Therapy (PCT).
Benefits of Tamoxifen
For anabolic steroid users, the advantages of Tamoxifen Citrate are observable during and after steroid use, with the latter being the main benefit. Tamoxifen Citrate does not lower serum estrogen levels but attaches to breast tissue receptors to prevent estrogen from binding. It may not significantly alleviate water retention issues and may not provide adequate protection against gynecomastia for all males, as this varies with estrogen levels and individual genetics. If stronger protection is needed, Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs) are suggested.
Additionally, Tamoxifen Citrate has testosterone-stimulating properties, which is crucial for anabolic steroid users. The use of anabolic steroids suppresses natural testosterone production, which occurs regardless of the specific steroids being utilized. Hence, most steroid cycles incorporate exogenous testosterone to prevent low testosterone levels due to negative feedback. After completing a steroid cycle, an agent is needed to reactivate testosterone production. While this will eventually occur naturally, it can be expedited and made more efficient with Tamoxifen.
For breast cancer patients, the effects of Tamoxifen Citrate are much clearer than for anabolic steroid users. Estrogen fuels cancer growth; Tamoxifen Citrate disrupts this by blocking its attachment to cancer cells, effectively starving the cancer. This straightforward yet effective treatment approach is often combined with other medications; initial treatments may start with an AI followed by a switch to a SERM like Tamoxifen Citrate. It can also be used proactively in individuals with significant family histories of breast cancer.
Headaches, nausea, hot flashes, vaginal itching, bleeding, discharge or discomfort, rAdministration:
In the context of breast cancer management, there are six Tamoxifen Citrate treatment plans applicable to both male and female patients. Doses typically range from 10-20 mg taken twice daily. A common regimen during the initial phase of treatment is 40 mg per day (20 mg twice daily). Many breast cancer patients may continue on a maintenance dose of 10-20 mg daily indefinitely after remission to prevent recurrence.For anabolic steroid users, preventing gynecomastia during cycles usually involves 10-20 mg daily. If this dosing fails, it is doubtful that a higher dose will be effective, and AIs should be considered.
Furthermore, with respect to PCT, the majority of plans begin with doses of Tamoxifen Citrate at 40 mg per day for 2-3 weeks. Following this, the dose is reduced to 20 mg per day for an additional 2-3 weeks. A comprehensive PCT regimen often includes another SERM, Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid). For a complete outline of a proper PCT protocol, refer to How to Come off Steroids.
