Are you currently taking prohormones, SARMs (selective androgen receptor modulators), or steroids, or planning to start such treatment soon? Then let’s learn about OCT (On Cycle Support), liver protection, and PCT (Post Cycle Therapy). In this post-cycle therapy guide, we’ll show you which products will best help you recover from a cycle, how to use them, and what to expect.
What is Post Cycle Therapy (PCT)?
Post-cycle therapy (PCT) is the process of balancing hormone levels in the body after steroid treatment, a prohormone cycle, or taking SARMs. Performance enhancers and sports supplements such as prohormones and steroids temporarily stop the body’s natural production of testosterone. Post-cycle therapy products help the body regenerate and increase testosterone levels again.
Why is Post Cycle Therapy Important?
If post-cycle therapy is missed, it can take 1-4 months for natural testosterone levels to return to normal. During this time, you risk losing muscle gains and strength. Additionally, your libido may drop, and you may experience other unwanted side effects.
With PCT, the body quickly restores natural testosterone production, preserving gains and reducing or eliminating potential side effects.
Why Does Testosterone Need Post-Cycle Therapy?
Testosterone is a natural compound produced by the gonads in the body, but like every steroid, it causes a reduction in endogenous testosterone production. This particular effect worsens with heavy cycles or longer durations. Not only will the down regulation be worse, but it will also be difficult to activate normal testosterone production after a larger or longer cycle.
Luteinizing Hormone and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone:
Steroid users will notice a reduction in luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. These two hormones are largely dependent on testosterone production.
Therefore, you need a post-cycle therapy protocol to ensure that normal testosterone levels return and to minimize the side effects of such performance-enhancing drugs.
The Overall Goals of PCT Can Be Divided into Four Sections:
- Return to peak hormone production levels
- Minimize the negative effects of artificially increased estrogen levels
- Improve your health faster
- Improve spermatogenesis
How Does PCT Work?
When using this type of substance, your natural production of sex hormones will be reduced—this is a side effect of anabolic steroids that simply cannot be avoided. However, we can try to remedy this situation a few days after taking your last dose of testosterone. If you don’t do that, you will suffer from low testosterone levels, low libido, poor sperm production, and you may lose muscle tissue. Another serious side effect is the development of breast tissue (gynecomastia).
Several compounds can be used to prevent side effects. The drugs used for PCT may depend on the length and size of your cycle.
SERMs (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators)
Estrogen receptor modulators, such as Clomid (clomiphene), are often used in post-treatment with performance-enhancing substances. They work by binding to estrogen receptors, blocking the action of estrogen, and helping restore normal sex hormone levels after a cycle.
Estrogen Reuptake Inhibitors:
SERMs also work by inhibiting the uptake of estrogen by target cells, limiting its effects in the body.
Breast Receptor Modulators:
SERMs selectively block estrogen receptors in breast tissue, preventing gynecomastia that can occur after some cycles.
Anticancer Drugs:
SERMs are also used in treating hormone-dependent cancers, such as breast cancer, because they inhibit the estrogen responsible for tumor growth.
HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)
HCG is a naturally occurring hormone in women that is important during pregnancy. In men, it mimics the role of the synthetic sex hormones LH and FSH. HCG acts similarly to LH and FSH, while certain drugs increase the actual levels of these hormones. HCG is not absolutely necessary in post-treatment therapy, but it can be beneficial—especially for those planning to have offspring.
Advantages of Using HCG:
- Stimulates the production of other sex hormones
- Quickly increases testosterone levels
Possible Side Effects:
- Increased estrogen levels
HCG is used to treat hormonal disorders and can increase estrogen levels. If in doubt, consult your doctor.
Optimal Length of the Therapy Cycle (PCT)
Post-cycle therapy should begin immediately after the end of the cycle and usually lasts at least 4 weeks. Different PCT manufacturers state the exact length of post-cycle therapy on their products—this can vary depending on the supplement. Additionally, the length and dose of PCT also depend on the previous treatment. The higher the doses of steroids, prohormones, or SARMs, the more comprehensive the post-cycle therapy should be.
Will Hormone Levels Return to Normal After Supplementation?
That depends on several important factors. First of all, the length and intensity of the treatment are important. The shorter and lower the doses of supplements taken, the greater the likelihood of returning to hormonal balance. Equally important is the appropriate support of the body after the end of the treatment.
We have observed great results in selected people who followed our post-cycle therapy guide. The most important things to remember are:
- Don’t stay on the cycle for too long. If you cycle for too long, your body may struggle to produce testosterone.
- Don’t use absurd doses. The more you suppress endogenous testosterone, the harder it will be to recover and return to natural testosterone levels.
Complete Blood Count: What is Worth Testing Before Starting PCT?
Before starting any post-treatment supplementation, blood tests are recommended. Special attention should be paid to hormone levels, lipid profile, and kidney function parameters. They provide a picture of your condition and allow you to choose the appropriate support.
It is extremely important to monitor the body also after the end of taking supplements to observe any potential disturbing changes in the blood. The decision to continue supplementation or to discontinue it for a period of time can depend on the results of the tests.
If another cycle of supplements is planned, it is recommended to wait until all parameters return to normal or close to normal. This will help minimize health risks.
Differences Between PCT and OCT – Cycle Support
Cycle Support products are taken during a prohormone cycle or steroid cycle to protect the liver and prevent increases in blood pressure and cholesterol levels. PCT products are taken after a cycle and support natural testosterone production, keeping hard-earned gains in muscle mass and avoiding unwanted side effects.
Who Should Use PCT?
It is recommended for anyone who has been taking substances that affect metabolism and hormone management. The purpose is to help the body restore homeostasis or get closer to the pre-treatment condition.
When to Take PCT?
PCT should be started 1-2 weeks after taking the last dose of testosterone stroids.
What is the Best Post-Cycle Therapy?
The best PCT involves using a healthy amount of CLOMID, HCG, HMG, and carnitine.
How Long After a Cycle Do Testosterone Levels Return to Normal?
It depends on variables such as the length and intensity of the cycle, but it can take from 2 to 4 months, depending on what you do to increase testosterone levels.
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