SP Tamoxifen

Though commonly classified as an anti-estrogen, Tamoxifen Citrate functions as both an antagonist and an agonist. This dual action means it can inhibit estrogen in some body parts while mimicking its effects in others.

This medication is often utilized by individuals who use anabolic steroids, though it is not a steroid itself. It is frequently employed during steroid cycles to mitigate estrogen-related side effects caused by certain steroids, but its primary use is during Post Cycle Therapy (PCT).

Anabolic steroid users can experience the beneficial effects of Tamoxifen Citrate during and after steroid use, with the latter being more significant. While Tamoxifen Citrate does not reduce serum estrogen levels, it binds to receptors in the breast tissue, obstructing estrogen from attaching. It is not very effective in alleviating water retention issues and may not provide sufficient protection against gynecomastia for all men; this can depend on the severity of estrogen levels and individual genetics. For stronger protection, Aromatase Inhibitors (AI’s) are advised.

Tamoxifen Citrate also stimulates testosterone production, which is crucial for anabolic steroid users since steroid use suppresses natural testosterone levels, regardless of the steroid type. This is why nearly all steroid cycles incorporate exogenous testosterone to prevent low testosterone levels due to negative feedback. After completing steroid use, a stimulant is needed to kickstart testosterone production. Although natural recovery can occur, it tends to be slow; hence, Tamoxifen can expedite and enhance this process.

For breast cancer patients, the effects of Tamoxifen Citrate are somewhat more straightforward than for anabolic steroid users. Estrogen promotes cancer growth, and Tamoxifen Citrate blocks its attachment, effectively starving the cancer cells. This straightforward and effective treatment method is usually part of a regimen that starts with an AI and then shifts to a SERM like Tamoxifen Citrate. It may also be used as a preventative measure for individuals with a significant family history of breast cancer.

In the context of breast cancer treatment, there are six Tamoxifen Citrate protocols for both male and female patients, typically involving doses of 10-20mg taken twice daily. A common initial dose is 40mg per day (20mg twice daily). Many breast cancer patients may continue with a dose of 10-20mg per day indefinitely once cancer remission is achieved, to prevent recurrence. For anabolic steroid users, dosages of 10-20mg per day are standard for gynecomastia prevention during cycles. If this dosage is ineffective, it is unlikely that a higher dose will be beneficial, making AIs a preferred option.

For Post Cycle Therapy, most plans start with Tamoxifen Citrate doses of 40mg daily for 2-3 weeks, followed by a reduction to 20mg per day for an additional 2-3 weeks. Effective PCT may also include another SERM, Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid). For a detailed PCT outline, refer to How to Come off Steroids.