What is the recommended post-cycle therapy for hypogonadism treated with testosterone (T)?

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Last updated: April 8, 2025 • View editorial policy

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From the Research

Post cycle therapy (PCT) for testosterone should involve taking medications like Clomid (clomiphene citrate) at 50mg daily for 2 weeks, then 25mg daily for 2 weeks, as it has been shown to be effective in restoring testosterone levels and improving quality of life 1. The goal of PCT is to restore natural testosterone production after using exogenous testosterone or anabolic steroids.

  • Start PCT approximately 2 weeks after your last testosterone injection or 3 days after your last oral steroid dose.
  • Adding hCG at 500-1000 IU every other day for 2 weeks before starting Clomid or Nolvadex can improve recovery 1.
  • Supporting supplements include vitamin D (2000-5000 IU daily), zinc (25-50mg daily), and magnesium (200-400mg daily). PCT works by blocking estrogen receptors in the pituitary gland, which increases luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone production, stimulating the testes to produce testosterone naturally. The length and intensity of your steroid cycle will determine how aggressive your PCT needs to be, with longer cycles requiring more comprehensive therapy. A recent study found that PCT is associated with reduced withdrawal symptoms from anabolic-androgenic steroid use, including cravings to restart AAS use, withdrawal symptoms, and suicidal thoughts 2. It is essential to note that the use of PCT should be done under medical supervision, as it can have potential side effects and interactions with other medications. In terms of specific medications, Clomid (clomiphene citrate) has been shown to be effective in restoring testosterone levels and improving quality of life, with a study finding that it increased testosterone levels by 223% after 3 months of treatment 1. Another study found that Clomid (clomiphene citrate) was as effective as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in restoring testosterone levels, with both treatments resulting in a significant increase in testosterone levels after 3 months 1.

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