Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT) is a crucial process for athletes and bodybuilders who have completed a cycle of anabolic steroids or other performance-enhancing supplements. The purpose of PCT is to restore the body’s natural hormonal balance, minimize potential side effects, and retain the gains achieved during the cycle.
When you use anabolic steroids, your body’s natural testosterone production can be suppressed, leading to various issues like gynecomastia, water retention, fat gain, and overall hormonal imbalance. PCT medications and supplements help reignite endogenous testosterone production, regulate estrogen levels, and reduce the likelihood of experiencing negative side effects. By normalizing the body's hormone levels, PCT helps you:
PCT can involve various non-steroidal drugs and supplements designed to help rebalance the body’s hormones. Some of the most common categories include:
Examples: Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid), Tamoxifen Citrate (Nolvadex).
SERMs work by blocking estrogen receptors, thereby reducing estrogenic side effects like gynecomastia. They also
help restore natural testosterone production by limiting the conversion of testosterone to estrogen. SERMs are often
taken both at the end of a steroid cycle and sometimes throughout to mitigate estrogenic effects.
Examples: Anastrozole, Exemestane, Proviron.
AIs prevent the conversion of androgens (like testosterone) into estrogen, offering an effective way to control
estrogen levels. They are frequently used during a cycle, especially when running compounds prone to aromatization
(e.g., testosterone esters, nandrolone, or methandrostenolone).
hCG helps to prevent testicular atrophy and stimulate the testes to produce testosterone. It is especially useful in longer or heavier cycles (typically over 6 weeks). hCG is often introduced toward the end of a cycle or in the weeks leading up to full PCT.
For steroids with progestin activity (e.g., nandrolone, trenbolone), prolactin levels can rise, leading to side effects like gynecomastia or decreased libido. Cabergoline lowers prolactin levels, mitigating these risks.
Over-the-counter test boosters can help support the body’s natural testosterone production once the steroids have completely cleared your system. They’re often used for 2–3 weeks post-cycle to smooth the transition back to natural hormone levels.
Oral anabolic steroids can strain liver function. Liver protectants (e.g., Liv.52, milk thistle) help maintain healthy liver enzymes and overall liver health throughout your cycle and post-cycle.
Some athletes use peptides or HGH during PCT to preserve muscle mass and aid in recovery. However, these can be costly and are typically considered an optional addition rather than a fundamental part of PCT.
Cortisol blockers help reduce muscle tissue breakdown (catabolism) caused by elevated cortisol levels post-cycle. Supplements like vitamin C and BCAAs can be beneficial for preserving muscle mass during the transition.
Proper post-cycle therapy should always be tailored to the type and length of your steroid cycle, as well as your individual response. Key strategies include:
At CanadaBioLabs, we understand the importance of a comprehensive PCT regimen. That’s why we offer a curated selection of Post-Cycle Therapy products, including SERMs, AIs, hCG, and more—all sourced from reputable manufacturers to ensure efficacy and safety.
Whether you’re an experienced bodybuilder or new to performance-enhancing methods, a well-planned Post-Cycle Therapy can mean the difference between lasting gains and unwanted side effects. Explore our range of PCT products at CanadaBioLabs and protect your results while supporting your long-term health.