PCT - Post-Cycle Therapy

What is PCT (post-cycle therapy)?

Post-cycle therapy (PCT) is a key part of responsible use of anabolic compounds, including anabolic-androgenic steroids and SARMs. Its main goal is to restore natural testosterone production after the cycle and minimize negative hormonal consequences. Unfortunately, many people underestimate its importance, which can lead to long-term health problems such as hypogonadism or irreversible hormonal changes.

Every steroid cycle disrupts the HPTA axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis), reducing the body’s natural testosterone production. The longer the cycle and the higher the doses, the greater the impact on the body. This is why proper PCT planning is not just recommended - it is essential.

In this article, I cover the most important aspects of post-cycle therapy - from the role of hormone bloodwork, through the use of HCG and aromatase inhibitors, to the importance of diet, supplementation, and the psychological side of recovery. Based on scientific data and years of hands-on experience, I have put together a practical guide for people who want to run PCT properly. I explain the details that are usually missed, but often decide whether the recovery works or fails. If you want a full, practical explanation of post-cycle therapy, this guide covers the topic from start to finish.

Why is PCT so important?

• Protecting hormonal health: Skipping PCT can lead to permanent damage to the HPTA axis.
• Preserving your gains: Proper PCT helps maintain the results achieved during the cycle, meaning it helps preserve the muscle mass gained and minimize strength loss.
• Minimizing side effects: Reducing the “hormonal crash” lowers the risk of depression, reduced libido, and muscle loss.
• Preventing feminization, including gynecomastia.
• Preventing testicular atrophy and oligospermia.

This is not a generic overview - it is a collection of specific, proven methods that help you end a cycle safely and return to natural hormonal balance. The information you will find in this article is not available anywhere else, because most of it comes from years of working with people and years of my own research.

PCT literally means therapy after the cycle. For completeness, however, I have also included several elements that are used from the very beginning of the cycle and technically are not part of PCT itself.

The Importance of Bloodwork Before and After the Cycle

Lab testing is the foundation of safe and effective post-cycle therapy. Without it, you are going in blind, which can lead to serious mistakes. Before starting a cycle, it is recommended to assess your general health, but in the context of PCT, detailed hormone bloodwork is especially important.

Why is bloodwork so important?

• It allows you to establish your baseline hormone values, including:
  • Total testosterone
  • LH, or luteinizing hormone
  • FSH, or follicle-stimulating hormone
  • SHBG, or sex hormone-binding globulin - this test helps determine your free testosterone level
• With baseline values, you know what level your body should return to after the cycle and hormonal restart.
• Without this data, you risk:
  • Ending PCT too early - for example, testosterone may come back at an average level, but that person’s natural baseline may have been high. Stopping PCT too soon can result in a permanently lower testosterone level.
  • Missing hidden problems - primary hypogonadism, such as testicular damage, requires replacement therapy that no PCT protocol can fix. Of course, this applies to cases where hypogonadism was already present before the cycle.
  • Treating secondary hypogonadism incorrectly - in some cases, long-term use of estrogen blockers may be necessary to maintain testosterone production.
  • Overstimulating the HPTA axis - excessively high doses of drugs such as Clomid, Tamoxifen, or Toremifene can cause hormonal problems. Based on pre-cycle bloodwork, you can initially estimate the correct dosing of estrogen blockers.

What rules should you follow during PCT based on bloodwork?

1. Finish PCT when testosterone reaches a level about 30% higher than baseline.
   After stopping the drugs, testosterone will naturally drop by around 30%. To avoid ending up with a deficiency, you need to reach that "surplus" first.
2. Never run PCT blindly.
   This is a common mistake and, in some cases, it can be more harmful than skipping PCT altogether. Without bloodwork, you cannot properly adjust drug dosages or assess whether PCT is producing the expected results. This becomes even more important when the person is using products from the black market.

Practical tips based on experience:

• Always do bloodwork before starting a cycle so you know your baseline values.
• After finishing the cycle, do follow-up bloodwork to assess your hormone levels. This is usually done around day 20-25 of PCT, and again 30 days after completely stopping Clomid, Tamoxifen, or Toremifene.
• During PCT, repeat bloodwork every 2-3 weeks to monitor progress and adjust drug dosages accordingly.

The most commonly ignored fact:

PCT is complete only when the body has returned to hormonal balance. There is no single "universal" dose of Clomid or Tamoxifen - everything depends on individual bloodwork results.

Skipping bloodwork is one of the most common mistakes made during post-cycle therapy. Effective PCT requires not only knowledge, but above all, monitoring hormone results. Only then can you say that PCT has been successful.

The Role of HCG in PCT

Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a very important element used during steroid cycles, but its place in post-cycle therapy is often misunderstood. HCG is used to prevent testicular atrophy and maintain testicular function, but it should not be used directly during PCT itself.

Why is HCG not part of PCT?

1. Suppression of the HPTA axis: Using HCG during PCT can create an artificial hormonal balance. Testosterone may appear to rise, but this is only the result of external stimulation of the testes by HCG, not natural testosterone production by the body.
2. The purpose of HCG: HCG should be used during the cycle to prevent testicular atrophy and prepare the testes for PCT. This way, when post-cycle therapy begins, the testes are able to resume natural testosterone production immediately.

How to use HCG correctly:

• HCG is best introduced during a steroid cycle or testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), starting around week 2-4 of the cycle.
• Typical doses range from 250 IU to 500 IU, administered 2-3 times per week.
• HCG is used until anabolic compounds have fully cleared from the body, which allows for a smooth transition into PCT.

Exceptional cases of using HCG during PCT

There are rare situations where HCG use during PCT may be justified, but only in very severe cases:

• After exceptionally long and intensive steroid cycles, where the HPTA axis is strongly suppressed.
• In such cases, a specific protocol known as Dr. Scally’s protocol is used. It combines HCG with estrogen blockers to minimize the risk of further axis suppression. I describe this protocol in detail below.

One question I get asked very often is: “How much HCG should I use during PCT?”

The answer is simple: none at all. Nothing should be administered. Using HCG during PCT has no justification and only pushes the body into even greater hormonal chaos, meaning further suppression. If HCG was not used during the cycle, this should be taken into account by extending the cycle for the period during which HCG will be used. Proper PCT, however, should begin with estrogen receptor blockers.

Correct HCG use can significantly support recovery of the HPTA axis, but only when it is used at the right time. HCG is not recommended during PCT itself - its role ends at the stage of preparing the body for post-cycle recovery. Incorrect HCG use is a common problem caused by lack of knowledge or bad advice.

Diet and Supplementation During PCT

Post-cycle therapy is not only about properly selected medications, but also about supporting the body through diet and supplementation. Hormonal recovery requires optimal conditions, and these can be created by providing the body with the right nutrients and supplements.

Diet to Support PCT

The diet should be based on healthy fats, which are essential for hormone production, including testosterone. Good sources include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids - fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel, walnuts, and flaxseed.
• Monounsaturated fats - avocado, olive oil, and almonds.
• Saturated fats in moderate amounts - egg yolks, butter, and meat.

Carbohydrates should come from minimally processed sources such as groats, whole grain rice, and sweet potatoes, while protein should come from meat, fish, eggs, and high-quality protein powders.

Supplements That Support PCT

• Zinc - supports testosterone production and acts as a natural aromatase inhibitor.
• Magnesium - supports recovery and improves sleep quality.
• Boron - may increase free testosterone levels by lowering SHBG.
• Omega-3 fatty acids - reduce inflammation and support hormonal balance.
• Tribulus terrestris - an herbal supplement traditionally used to support libido and hormonal health. From my own observation, tribulus works only during PCT. Under normal circumstances, its effect on testosterone is almost negligible. It may increase libido, but it does not seem to have much impact on hormones.
• Ashwagandha - an adaptogen that reduces stress and supports recovery.
• Vitamins D3 and K2 - support the endocrine system and bone health.

Acne During PCT

During post-cycle therapy, hormonal changes can increase sebum production, which often leads to more noticeable acne. This problem mainly affects people with a genetic predisposition or those who have previously struggled with skin issues.

How to Deal With Acne During PCT

• Avoid high-glycemic foods - simple sugars can make skin problems worse.
• Take care of your skin hygiene - use gentle cleansers designed for oily and acne-prone skin.
• Make sure supplementation is properly planned:
  • Zinc - regulates sebum production and speeds up the healing of skin lesions.
  • Omega-3 - reduces inflammation and improves overall skin condition.
  • Vitamin A from natural sources, such as liver - supports skin regeneration.
• Avoid trans fats - they can worsen inflammation and skin problems.
• Add adaptogens such as ashwagandha - they help reduce stress, which can also reduce stress-related skin flare-ups.

Practical Tips

• Avoid restrictive diets during PCT - your body needs energy to recover.
• Stay hydrated - proper hydration supports metabolism and the body’s natural waste removal processes.
• Add moderate physical activity to improve circulation and support recovery, but avoid overtraining.

Possible Side Effects of Poorly Managed PCT

Post-cycle therapy is a critical stage of the body’s recovery after a steroid cycle. If it is done incorrectly, it can lead to long-term hormonal and health problems. Below are the most common consequences of mistakes made during PCT.

1. Prolonged hormonal recovery
   If HCG was not used during the cycle, or if a low-quality product was used, recovery may take much longer. When external testosterone is no longer present and the body is still not producing enough testosterone on its own, the so-called "hormonal crash" appears. This is a critical moment in which:
2. • Estradiol levels are too low, which can lead to joint problems, mood disturbances, and reduced libido.
   • Lack of testosterone can result in depression, loss of muscle mass, and increased body fat.
3. Lower libido and erectile problems
   Poorly managed PCT often leads to serious sexual problems. People with testosterone deficiency may experience reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, and an overall decline in sexual quality of life.
4. Depression and mental health problems
   The “hormonal crash” is not only a physical problem, but also a psychological one. Low testosterone and estradiol levels can lead to low mood, irritability, and even depressive symptoms.
5. Rapid muscle loss, or the "crash"
   Poorly managed PCT often leads to a rapid loss of the muscle mass gained during the cycle. Without external anabolic support and with insufficient levels of natural hormones, the body shifts into a catabolic state, meaning it starts breaking down muscle tissue.
6. Increased risk of permanent hormonal problems
   If the doses of PCT medications such as Clomid, Tamoxifen, or Toremifene are too low, PCT will not work. If they are too high, the HPTA axis can become overstimulated, which slows down recovery. In people with genetic predispositions or pre-existing hormonal problems, this may lead to permanently suppressed testosterone production.

In my experience, 99% of healthy people under 50 do not experience the problems described above when the protocol is properly planned. After just two weeks of PCT, testosterone levels usually begin to return to normal, although this does not mean that the therapy is finished. In my practice, I have prepared over 1,000 protocols and have an extensive database of laboratory results confirming the effectiveness of these methods. By day 20 of PCT, hormone levels are usually within the normal range or around 130% of baseline, which ensures optimal recovery.

Problems usually result from:

• Using counterfeit products - for example, the so-called Greek Clomid does not work at all. Between 2022 and 2024, we did not come across a single working one.
• Skipping HCG during the cycle - this is one of the most common mistakes.
• Pre-existing hormonal disorders that were ignored before the cycle.

The key takeaway

The main goal of PCT is to minimize the time during which the body remains without sufficient hormone levels. The shorter the “hormonal crash,” the lower the risk of side effects and the greater the chance of full recovery.

The Role of Aromatase Inhibitors in PCT

Aromatase inhibitors, or AIs for short, such as Letrozole, Anastrozole, and Exemestane, are used during a steroid cycle to keep estrogen levels under control. However, their use during PCT is much more limited. The key is knowing when they are actually needed and when they can do more harm than good.

When are aromatase inhibitors needed during PCT?

During post-cycle therapy, aromatase inhibitors are used rarely and usually only toward the end of PCT. The main situations where they may be needed include:

• High testosterone levels during PCT - when testosterone rises above baseline values under the influence of Clomid or Tamoxifen, there is a risk of excessive aromatization, which can increase estradiol levels.
• Long-term use of Clomid after finishing PCT - to maintain high testosterone production, introducing an AI may be necessary to prevent side effects caused by excess estrogen.

The role of AIs during the cycle

The main purpose of using aromatase inhibitors during a cycle is to control estradiol levels, especially when using anabolic compounds that aromatize.

High estradiol not only increases the risk of gynecomastia, but through feedback mechanisms, it can also delay the start of PCT. For this reason, aromatization should be controlled already during the cycle.

Examples of AI use are covered in the article How to Structure a Steroid Cycle?

Why does high estradiol delay PCT?

Estradiol suppresses the HPTA axis through a feedback mechanism. When estrogen levels are high, the hypothalamus and pituitary gland interpret this as a signal that the body already has enough hormones. This leads to suppressed production of gonadotropins, meaning LH and FSH. These gonadotropins are essential for stimulating the testes to produce testosterone, so without them, effective hormonal recovery is not possible.

Why can Clomid be less effective when estradiol is high?

Clomid works as a selective estrogen receptor modulator, or SERM. It blocks estrogen receptors at the level of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which increases gonadotropin production. However, when estradiol levels are very high, the amount of estradiol can exceed Clomid’s ability to effectively block those receptors. As a result, the pituitary gland does not produce enough LH and FSH, which slows down recovery of the HPTA axis.

The problem of high estradiol after a cycle

In cases where someone uses testosterone enanthate and then switches to testosterone propionate, excessive aromatization can occur in the final stages of the cycle. High estradiol levels may persist even after stopping propionate, leading to a situation where testosterone is close to zero while estradiol remains elevated.

This significantly complicates PCT, because high estrogen levels suppress the effect of Clomid and prevent proper stimulation of the HPTA axis. This is why it is extremely important to control aromatization during the cycle, especially in the final stage when using testosterone propionate.

Practical tips for using AIs:

• Always monitor estradiol levels during the cycle and during PCT through regular bloodwork.
• If you use an AI during PCT, choose the lowest effective dose. For example, Anastrozole can be used in minimal doses, such as 0.25 mg every 3 days, but ONLY if it is actually needed. And you will know that ONLY from bloodwork.
• Avoid using AIs blindly - both too low and too high estradiol levels negatively affect recovery of the hormonal axis.

In pharmacies, aromatase inhibitors are sold under the following names:

• Letrozole: Apo-Letro, Aromek, Clarzole, Etruzil, Femara, Lametta, Letralan, Letromedac, Letrozol Teva, Letrozole Accord, Letrozole Apotex, Letrozole Bluefish, Lortanda, Lostar, Mionic, Symletrol, Trozebax
• Anastrozole: Anastralan, AnastroLek, Anastrozol Bluefish, Anastrozol medac, Anastrozol Teva, Anastrozolo-ratiopharm, Anastrozole Accord, Ansyn, Apo-Nastrol, Arimidex, Atrozol, Egistrozol, Mamostrol, Symanastrol, Zolastrol
• Exemestane: Aromasin, Glandex, Symex

Interesting note

Proviron is considered by many people to be a weak aromatase inhibitor (https://www.steroidology.com/forum/anabolic-steroid-forum/84687-how-effective-proviron-aromatase-blocker.html). In my opinion, this is not true. It does not lower SHBG and it does not block aromatization.

Kisspeptin During PCT

Kisspeptin may support recovery of the HPTA axis. It works by stimulating the hypothalamus to release gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which then increases pituitary production of gonadotropins, meaning LH and FSH. For that reason, it may be useful in selected cases during PCT.

Is it worth using kisspeptin during PCT?

Yes, in some cases kisspeptin can be very helpful, especially when:

1. The HPTA axis is strongly suppressed - for example, after long and intensive steroid cycles.
2. Standard medications such as Clomid and Tamoxifen are not enough - kisspeptin may work synergistically and increase the overall effectiveness of PCT.
3. Faster restoration of HPTA axis function is needed - thanks to its direct effect on the hypothalamus.

Can kisspeptin be used during the cycle itself?

It is not really standard practice, because the main purpose of kisspeptin is to stimulate natural gonadotropin production, which is already suppressed during the cycle. However, in exceptional cases, for example when HCG is being used to prevent testicular atrophy, kisspeptin could potentially serve as additional support for the HPTA axis.

Advantages of using kisspeptin:

• It stimulates natural GnRH release, which leads to increased LH and FSH.
• It may work faster and more directly than SERMs, bypassing some of the limitations of Clomid or Tamoxifen.
• It does not appear to negatively affect estrogen levels, which is an important aspect of HPTA axis recovery.

Possible drawbacks or limitations:

• Kisspeptin is a relatively new compound, and the amount of clinical research on its long-term use is still limited.
• Its effectiveness may be lower in people whose hypothalamus or pituitary gland is damaged or unresponsive to GnRH.

Psychological Aspects of PCT

Post-cycle therapy is not only a physical challenge, but also a psychological one. The hormonal changes that occur in the body after a steroid cycle can significantly affect mood and mental health. Understanding these processes and having the right support are crucial for getting through this stage without more serious problems.

Why does PCT affect your mental state?

1. A drop in testosterone - even with properly managed post-cycle therapy, testosterone naturally drops after stopping anabolic compounds. This drop can lead to:
   • Lower mood.
   • Irritability.
   • Reduced self-confidence.
2. Changes in estrogen levels - disrupted estrogen balance can cause mood swings, sleep problems, and a feeling of fatigue.
3. The hormonal “crash” - the transition period in which the body is not yet producing enough of its own hormones is especially difficult, because it affects overall wellbeing, energy, and motivation.

How to deal with the psychological challenges of PCT

• Understanding and acceptance: knowing that mood swings are a natural part of the recovery process makes them easier to handle.
• Staying physically active: regular moderate-intensity training improves mood through endorphin release and can help reduce stress.
• Managing stress: relaxation techniques such as meditation, diaphragmatic breathing, or yoga support emotional stability.
• Supplementation: adaptogens such as ashwagandha can help regulate cortisol levels and reduce stress. B vitamins and magnesium support the nervous system.
• Social support: talking to people who have gone through a similar process can be extremely helpful. I mean this literally - talking to other people who have gone through the same process can genuinely help. It is also worth considering contact with a therapist if mood problems start getting worse.

What to avoid during PCT

• Social isolation - lack of support and withdrawing into yourself can worsen depressive symptoms.
• Excessive training - overtraining during this phase can increase stress levels and impair recovery.
• Stimulants and alcohol - they can intensify mood swings and make it harder for the body to recover.

Motivation and Goals During PCT

A common problem during PCT is lack of motivation, caused by lower energy levels and visible changes such as loss of muscle mass or less visible muscle definition. That is why it is worth:

• Focusing on long-term goals: remember that PCT is only one stage, and a properly managed hormonal restart will give better results in the future.
• Monitoring progress: regular hormone bloodwork and documenting changes help you see that recovery is moving forward, which can be motivating.

I will also add that in my own practice, there have been only 2 cases where people felt very bad. As it turned out, in the first case, the person was taking so-called Greek Clomid, which did not work. In the second case, the person generally reacted very badly to clomiphene citrate. We replaced it with Tamoxifen and everything returned to normal.

On average, lower mood lasts up to around two weeks, but we are not talking about depressive states here.

Tapering Off Compounds Before PCT

Gradually tapering off anabolic steroids, especially long esters such as testosterone enanthate, is crucial for a proper transition into post-cycle therapy (PCT). This process helps minimize the “hormonal gap” - the moment when exogenous testosterone levels drop, while endogenous testosterone production has not yet recovered.

Why is gradual tapering important?

1. Minimizing hormonal fluctuations - suddenly stopping steroid use can lead to a sharp drop in testosterone levels, which worsens crash symptoms such as muscle loss, reduced libido, and depression. Gradually reducing the dose allows the body to adapt better to the changing hormonal environment.
2. Better estradiol control - long esters such as enanthate tend to aromatize. Gradually switching to a shorter ester, such as propionate, allows for better control of estrogen levels and helps avoid excessive aromatization.

How to properly reduce the dosage of testosterone or other compounds

• Switching from a long ester to a short ester
  After finishing testosterone enanthate, cypionate, or decanoate, you should switch to testosterone propionate, which has a shorter half-life. Propionate allows for more precise control of hormone levels in the blood and makes it possible to start PCT sooner after stopping it.
• Reducing the dose
  For people using high doses of testosterone, for example 1000 mg per week, the tapering process may look like this:

• • Week 1: 500 mg.
  • Week 2: 250 mg.
  • Week 3: switch to propionate, for example 100 mg every 2 days.
  • Then complete discontinuation after 3 weeks of propionate use.

Common mistakes during tapering

1. Not switching to a short ester - if PCT is started immediately after a long ester, the body may still be clearing the remaining anabolic compounds, which disrupts the action of Clomid or Tamoxifen. In this case, successful recovery is not realistic. This mistake is extremely common.
2. Stopping too quickly - suddenly stopping steroid use, especially at high doses, increases the risk of a hormonal gap. For example, after 250 mg of testosterone enanthate, PCT should usually start around day 21 after the last injection. During this time, testosterone levels will gradually decline, but PCT still cannot be started because it will not work. This is why you should transition out of the cycle using short testosterone esters, such as propionate.

Practical example:

A person using 750 mg of testosterone enanthate per week finishes the cycle and reduces the dose to 300 mg per week. Then, they switch to testosterone propionate at a dose of 100 mg every 2 days. After three weeks of propionate use and estradiol control, they start PCT when testosterone levels are low enough not to interfere with the action of estrogen blockers.

It is also important to remember that with testosterone propionate, you should wait 3 half-lives before starting PCT.

Why does dose reduction not have to be very slow?

Gradually reducing the steroid dose does not mean stretching the process over many weeks. Reducing the dose by half each week is enough for the body to have time to adapt, while keeping the tapering period reasonably short.

How to Run PCT Properly?

Running PCT properly requires taking into account the type and length of the cycle, the anabolic compounds used, and their half-lives. In this section, we will cover the most important principles for building an effective PCT protocol.

When should PCT be started?

The start of PCT depends on the type of steroid used and its half-life. As a general rule, PCT begins after roughly three to four half-lives of the last compound used, once the active level of the compound has dropped low enough not to interfere with recovery. For popular compounds:

• Testosterone enanthate: The half-life is around 5 days, so PCT starts after around 20 days. If the dose is, for example, 750 mg per week, the number of half-lives should be increased accordingly.
• Testosterone propionate: The half-life is around 2 days, so PCT can be started 6 days after the last 100 mg dose.

The key elements of effective PCT:

1. Clomid (Clomiphene)
   • Used to stimulate the pituitary gland to produce LH and FSH.
   • Initial doses are higher, for example 100 mg/day, and then reduced, for example to 50 mg/day.
2. Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)
   • Works synergistically with Clomid, supports recovery of the HPTA axis, and blocks the effects of estrogen. It is an older-generation drug and is used much less often than clomiphene - usually together with Clomid in more severe cases.
3. Aromatase inhibitors (AIs)
   • Introduced at the end of the cycle or at the beginning of PCT if estradiol levels are elevated.

Post-cycle therapy begins when anabolic-androgenic steroids are no longer active enough to interfere with PCT. This timing is calculated based on the half-life of the longest-acting compounds used. Before starting PCT, estradiol and prolactin levels must also be checked.

If estradiol is elevated, an aromatase inhibitor should be used to bring it back into the normal range. Otherwise, PCT will take significantly longer.

If prolactin levels are elevated, cabergoline (Dostinex) should be used. Elevated prolactin also slows down the process of returning hormonal balance to baseline.

Clomid (Clomiphene, Clostilbegyt) Dosing

Toremifene (Fareston, Toremifene citrate) Dosing

Tamoxifen (Tamox, Tamoxifen) Dosing

Warning! If you used compounds that increase prolactin levels, such as nandrolone (Deca) or trenbolone, Tamoxifen must not be used!

PCT Example (testosterone enanthate cycle)

Above is a classic testosterone enanthate cycle with a transition to testosterone propionate during the final two weeks to maintain stable testosterone levels. Proper pharmacological support helps reduce the risk of side effects and significantly increases the effectiveness of the cycle.

Aromatase inhibitors - help prevent gynecomastia and increase testosterone concentration by blocking its conversion into estrogens. Low doses should be used to keep estrogen levels within the reference range. Letrozole or Exemestane can be used instead of Anastrozole. Proper bloodwork is recommended to determine whether an aromatase inhibitor is needed at all.

Gonadotropin (HCG) helps keep the testes sensitive to endogenous gonadotropins. Research has shown that using gonadotropin during a cycle can significantly speed up the return of natural testosterone production. During multi-month cycles, it is introduced continuously, although experts recommend a two-week break after 3-5 weeks of use. There is also evidence that using HCG during a steroid cycle can raise estrogen levels too high, which may lead to side effects such as gynecomastia. This is why most doctors do not recommend using HCG during the cycle. I covered this in more detail in the article: How to use HCG during a steroid cycle.

Tamoxifen - is one of the main drugs used in post-cycle therapy. It helps restart natural testosterone production by blocking estrogen receptors in the pituitary gland, although Clomiphene or Toremifene are generally preferred.

Growth hormone and peptides - are secondary compounds used to limit post-cycle catabolism.

If short esters with a short half-life, such as testosterone propionate, or oral steroids are used during the final weeks of the cycle, HCG and aromatase inhibitors are stopped together with anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). Anti-estrogen therapy starts after 3-4 days, when blood concentrations of the compounds have reached their minimum. I covered this in more detail in the article: How to use HCG during a steroid cycle.

Example cycle including nandrolone or trenbolone, with PCT

• As already mentioned above, compounds with progestogenic activity - nandrolone (Deca) and trenbolone - can increase prolactin levels during use. This may reduce libido, cause fluid retention, and lead to possible progesterone-related gynecomastia. Cabergoline (Dostinex) can almost completely eliminate these side effects.
• Instead of Tamoxifen, Clomid (Clostilbegyt) or the more modern and safer drug Toremifene (Fareston) is used. Tamoxifen increases the sensitivity of progesterone receptors, which is why it is not recommended in this case.
• An aromatase inhibitor is included because the base of the cycle is testosterone, which aromatizes very easily.

The compounds discussed in this article should be used only under medical supervision. Only a qualified medical specialist can design an optimal and safe cycle by assessing the risks and taking individual characteristics into account.

Anabolic-androgenic compounds should be used only after consultation with a specialist doctor.
The information above is not an encouragement to use or distribute anabolic-androgenic steroids. It is provided solely to reduce the risk of complications and side effects in people who have already decided to use these compounds.

Dr. Michael Scally’s Protocol

Dr. Michael Scally is a recognized expert in post-cycle therapy (PCT) and androgen replacement therapy. He developed a comprehensive PCT protocol known as the “PoWeR PCT Program,” created to restore the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis after anabolic steroid use.

When should Dr. Scally’s PCT protocol be used?

• After long cycles lasting more than 16 weeks, especially with high steroid doses.
• In cases where standard PCT has previously proven ineffective due to pre-existing hormonal problems.
• In people with severe HPTA axis suppression, with absent or very low LH, FSH, and testosterone levels.

Dr. Scally’s PCT protocol:

HCG, Clomid, and Tamoxifen are administered at the same time.

1. Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG):
   • Dosage: 2000 IU every other day.
   • Duration: 20 days.
2. Clomiphene citrate (Clomid):
   • Dosage: 50 mg twice daily.
   • Duration: 30 days.
3. Tamoxifen citrate (Nolvadex):
   • Dosage: 20 mg twice daily.
   • Duration: 45 days.

Goals of the protocol:

• Stimulating endogenous testosterone production: HCG mimics the action of luteinizing hormone (LH), which stimulates the testes to produce testosterone.
• Improving pituitary gland function: Clomid and Nolvadex are selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). They block estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, stimulating the release of gonadotropins, meaning LH and FSH.
• Preventing estrogen-related side effects: by blocking estrogen receptors, Clomid and Nolvadex help minimize potential side effects such as gynecomastia.

Effectiveness:

Dr. Scally’s protocol has been used in clinical cases involving the treatment of anabolic steroid-induced hypogonadism. It has been shown to restore hormonal balance within roughly 45 days.

Using Growth Hormone During PCT

Growth hormone (GH) is often used as a supportive measure during post-cycle therapy (PCT), but its role is different from compounds such as Clomid or Tamoxifen. GH does not directly affect recovery of the HPTA axis, but it may provide certain benefits, especially for overall recovery.

Benefits of using GH during PCT:

1. Protecting muscle mass
   GH supports protein synthesis and has anti-catabolic effects, which may help preserve muscle mass during the period of lower testosterone levels.
2. Improved recovery
   GH stimulates the production of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which supports tissue recovery, including muscles and joints. This is especially important after intensive cycles.
3. Support for fat loss
   GH increases metabolism and helps maintain or reduce body fat, which may counteract the tendency to gain fat during periods of low testosterone.

Drawbacks of using GH during PCT:

• No effect on HPTA axis recovery: GH does not support the production of gonadotropins, meaning LH and FSH, or testosterone, so it cannot replace the standard medications used in PCT.
• Cost: growth hormone therapy is expensive, which makes it impractical for most people.
• Possible side effects: excessive GH use can lead to water retention, nerve-related problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome, and elevated blood glucose levels.

Why Using Proviron During PCT Makes No Sense

Proviron (Mesterolone) is an anabolic-androgenic steroid that acts as a synthetic androgen. It is also sometimes described as an aromatase inhibitor, although that is, to put it mildly, an overstatement. It is often seen as a potential supportive compound during PCT, but using it in this phase is ineffective and even counterproductive.

Why does Proviron not help during PCT?

1. It does not support HPTA axis recovery
   Proviron does not stimulate the HPTA axis because it acts as an exogenous androgen. Quite the opposite - its presence can trick the body into thinking that androgen levels are already sufficient, which further suppresses natural testosterone production.
2. No therapeutic effect
   Unlike Clomid or Tamoxifen, Proviron does not act on estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, so it does not increase gonadotropin production, meaning LH and FSH, which is essential for recovery.
3. It masks the problem
   Proviron may improve libido and create a subjective feeling of better wellbeing due to its androgenic effect, but it does not solve the main problem, which is restoring natural testosterone production.
4. Potential suppressive effect
   As an exogenous androgen, Proviron may further suppress the HPTA axis, especially at higher doses, making the problem worse instead of solving it.

Why do people think Proviron is good for PCT?

Because they believe Proviron blocks aromatization and lowers estradiol levels. In practice, however, aromatase inhibitors such as Anastrozole are a better and more controlled option for this purpose. Proviron is often mistakenly seen as a form of “light” hormonal support that does not interfere with HPTA axis recovery, but that assumption is wrong.

Using Proviron during PCT is not only ineffective, but may also be harmful. Instead, the focus should be on compounds that directly support recovery of the HPTA axis, such as Clomid, Tamoxifen, or aromatase inhibitors in justified cases.