Testosterone Cypionate belongs, like Enanthate, to the group of **long-acting Testosterones**. It is one of the most frequently chosen compounds for building muscle mass in long cycles, valued for delivering the best results in the growth process.
Key Parameters:
- Half-Life: Approximately **8–9 days**.
- Injection Frequency: A single injection raises Testosterone levels for nearly two weeks. In practice, it is injected **once every 5–7 days** to achieve a constant and stable level of action.
- Efficacy: It is considered equally effective as Testosterone Enanthate. Opinions about its alleged higher effectiveness are outdated or mistaken.
As a highly anabolic and androgenic steroid, Testosterone Cypionate ensures significant gains in **muscle mass and strength**. It is considered an ideal **base steroid** for bulking cycles.
Impact on Mass Quality (Aromatization):
- Water Retention: Testosterone readily converts to estrogen, causing significant water retention. Therefore, Cypionate is not the best compound for cutting phases and is less preferred immediately before competitions.
- Gynecomastia: Excess estrogen carries the risk of developing gynecomastia. If the user notices itching or a lump under the nipples, **Tamoxifen** should be started immediately. A better solution is to use an **aromatase inhibitor** from the start of the cycle (if the Testosterone dose exceeds 500 mg/week).
Cypionate is mainly used during mass gain phases but is also suitable for dieting, provided smaller doses are used to minimize aromatization.
The injected amounts of Testosterone Cypionate depend on the goal and the athlete's development level:
Recommended Weekly Dosing:
- Beginners (First Cycle): 200–250 mg once a week.
- Intermediate Users: 400–500 mg per week.
- Advanced and Heavyweight Users: 400–500 mg every five days, or up to **1000 mg weekly** (or more).
Cypionate mass cycles should encompass **at least 16 weeks**, and preferably 6 months, to achieve solid muscle substance. Short-term cycles (6–8 weeks) often result in excessive water accumulation and loss of gains upon discontinuation.
Advanced Combinations:
Professionals and world-class athletes often use doses exceeding 1000 mg weekly, combining **Testosterone Cypionate** with **Growth Hormone**, potentially **Insulin**, and **Nandrolone Decanoate**.
⚠️ **Warning for Women:** The use of long-acting Testosterones is strongly discouraged due to the high risk of virilization.