Tamoxifen is a synthetic, non-steroidal prescription-only drug classified as a **Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM)**. Its action involves inhibiting the binding of estrogens to hormonal receptors in the cytoplasm.
Key Properties:
- Agonist/Antagonist: Tamoxifen is an **estrogen antagonist** in breast tissue, meaning it blocks estrogen receptors in that area. This is crucial for treating breast cancer (even with metastases) and for preventing gynecomastia.
- Absorption: Maximum concentration in blood serum occurs approximately **4–7 hours** after oral administration, indicating rapid absorption from the gastrointestinal tract.
- Availability: The drug is relatively inexpensive and usually available in tablets containing **20 mg of the active substance**.
In the sports and bodybuilding world, the primary effect of Tamoxifen is the **blockade of circulating estrogen** and the stimulation of the pituitary gland to produce hormones vital for male hormonal balance.
Role in PCT:
Following a steroid cycle, natural Testosterone production is lowered, and the aromatization of doping agents leads to an excess of estrogen. Tamoxifen helps in two key aspects:
- Blocking Estrogen Receptors: Protects against the development of gynecomastia and helps preserve achieved physique results.
- Restoring Balance: Through its action (antagonist in estrogen-dependent tissues, but also an agonist in the hypothalamus), it helps restore the proper function of the **Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis (HPTA)**, stimulating natural Testosterone production.
Without restoring proper HPTA function, most strength and physique gains would be reversed due to surging female sex hormones.
The dosage and duration of Tamoxifen intake depend on the length and intensity of the steroid cycle. The drug is taken both during the cycle (prevention) and after its completion (PCT).
Typical Dosing Schemes:
- During Cycle (Prevention): It is recommended to take **20 mg of Tamoxifen per day** for the first 15 days of the cycle, with the possibility of reducing the dose by half for another 15 days (to minimize excessive aromatization).
- Post Cycle (PCT): Tamoxifen is typically used for a period of **2 to 3 weeks** at an average dose of **20–40 mg per day** to help restore natural Testosterone production.
Important Note: The use of this drug requires supervision by a qualified professional, as dosing must be precisely adjusted based on individual hormonal tests.