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

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: April 8, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

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.

Related Questions

What is the preferred treatment, Clomid (clomiphene citrate) or HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), for stimulating natural testosterone production after discontinuing testosterone therapy?
Does exposure to direct sunlight on the scrotum increase testosterone levels?
What is the plan of care for a 47-year-old male patient with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), binge eating disorder, metabolic syndrome, hypertension with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Stage II, mixed hyperlipidemia, and hypothyroidism, presenting with low testosterone levels, currently taking Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) 15mg twice daily, Rosuvastatin 40mg every night, Levothyroxine 75mcg daily, Enalapril 10mg daily, Pantoprazole 40mg daily, Vitamin D3 5000 IU twice daily, Clomiphene 50mg every other day, and Vitamin B12 1000mcg daily?
What is the preferred treatment between Clomid (clomiphene citrate) and testosterone for low testosterone levels?
How do you treat a patient with normal total testosterone and low free testosterone levels?
Is Ryaltris (olopatadine and mometasone) nasal spray safe during pregnancy?
What is the workup for dryness and cracked skin surrounding the right pinky finger due to a fungal infection, which has worsened at night since starting ketoconazole (ketoconazole) 2% cream two months ago, and has persisted after discontinuation 3-4 days ago?
Is red yeast rice effective for treating hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol)?
What is the management of diabetic (Dm) foot pain, numbness, and nocturnal hotness?
What is the purpose of a stool test for melena (black, tarry stools)?
What are the stages of phimosis?

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.