Post Cycle Therapy Guide: What You Need To Know Now

April 16, 2021November 29, 2022 Anthony Conigliaro BSc 1262 Views

Cycling is always a sour subject in the realm of dietary supplements. Whether it’s from your pre workout or prohormones, there’s often a lot of questions. The first and most common being, do you need to? Short answer is yes! But, don’t worry we’ll explain all the basics and why in the guide.

But, if you want to skip around, feel free to jump to the topic that interests you:

What Is A Post Cycle Therapy
Why Do You Need It
How Long Does A PCT Run
What Lifestyles Need To Be Made
What To Look For
Popular Products

What Is Post Cycle Therapy (PCT)?

Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) refers to the protocol used after a hormonal enhancer (like a prohormone) to restore your body’s natural production of that hormone. This period is often referred to as being “off-cycle” and requires a rather specific set of compounds to promote your body’s production of a hormone after your cycle of synthetic hormones is over. For the purposes of this blog, we’re only going to discuss PCTs in reference to performance enhancer hormonal supplements.

However, there are different avenues in which a PCT may aid in a hormonal replacement therapy or other condition-specific situations. But, please keep in mind while reading, the purpose of this blog is not to provide medical advice. If you’re interested in taking a PCT for a reason outside of prohormone usage, you should discuss your options with your doctor.

Why Do You Need It?

The term “prohormones” refer to compounds that metabolize in the body into a target hormone, consider them like a “pre” hormone. While prohormones are not limited to only anabolic hormones, this term is often used when discussing bodybuilding and performance enhancing compounds. In which, the target hormone for most prohormones is testosterone or a synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS), like boldenone. (1)

While taking your prohormone (on-cycle), your body’s natural production of testosterone can be suppressed. And this isn’t limited to just prohormone usage. Often if you consume or supplement your body’s natural production of a hormone with an external source, your body may begin to suppress production of that hormone. Which may sound counterintuitive, but in reality, your body is constantly attempting to reach a state of homeostasis (balance). So even in the situation where your body is producing too little of a hormone, there’s an alternative function going on to try to compensate. This isn’t a perfect process, our bodies can become lazy and in some cases this compensation leads to more issues. (2)

So, when you take a supplement with synthetic hormones, your body is going to use that energy for other processes rather than for production.

Consider This…

If you’re an advocate for supplements like melatonin, you may be very familiar with this. Think about when you first started to take melatonin VS after consistently using it. How easily could you fall asleep without your supplemental melatonin VS using it consistently and going cold-turkey?

Now imagine that with your testosterone levels. Without the usage of a PCT, your body simply cannot catch up. And this can show surface in many ways, such as a reduction in well-being/mental health, low libido, increase in fat mass or water retention, and even more serious conditions like hypogonadism. (3)

Unfortunately, for too many prohormone users, this isn’t enough to stick to a PCT protocol.

And the next question users ask is:

Why can’t they continue to use their prohormone?

The reality is the long-term side effects of prohormone abuse is well defined (which is rare when it comes to supplements).

Some of the side effects of prohormone/AAS abuse can include:

Cardiac Disease
Mood and Anxiety Disorders
Hypogonadism
Liver Toxicity
Gynecomastia (Breast Tenderness)
Infertility

And the list goes on. (4) Additionally, each body system plays a role in reaching homeostasis and no system works in isolation. So when there is a disruption in one system, there are often side effects in other systems. (2)

For example androgens and estrogen.

While estrogens and androgens are often defined as “male” or “female” hormones, this is actually an oversimplification. In fact, researchers indicate that both these hormone family’s regulate biological (and pathological) processes in both males and females. One general direct relationship is through the enzymatic process that converts testosterone to estradiol, aromatase. When presented with the concerns of excess estradiol in men, many individuals may choose to supplement with an aromatase inhibitor, which is also a common compound in prohormones and PCT alike. For short-term usage, like during your cycle, this may aid in increasing testosterone levels. (5)

However, long-term suppression of estrogen in men also may result in side effects. Such as abnormalities in bone formation, glucose and lipid metabolism (trending toward metabolic syndrome), and reproductive tract development and function (ultimately impairing fertility). (6)

So when you’re approaching your off-cycle period, it’s essential to consider the length of your protocol.

How Long Should Your PCT Be?

The general rule of thumb is time on-cycle should equal your time off-cycle. However, this may have some wiggle room depending on your specific cycle. Different types of prohormones can have different release rates and this could aid in determining how long to run your PCT. For example, slow-release prohormones may remain in your body for longer periods of time. (4) Meaning you may need to have an extended PCT protocol. However, fast-release prohormones exit your body quickly. Therefore, in addition to not needing a longer protocol, you may want to start it before your cycle is entirely finished.

Things to consider during your cycle that may affect your PCT:

1.Higher doses of prohormones and the amount of prohormone types (if doing a stack or blend) may contribute to weight/muscle loss during your PCT. Lower doses may help avoid weight/muscle loss, but may not provide as much weight/muscle gain.

2.Longer durations between cycles may contribute weight/muscle loss. But, the longer the break, the more opportunity your body has to be recovered and restored.

When Can You Start Your Next Cycle?

The general recommendation for prohormones is to wait at least 30 days after your PCT is completed to begin your next cycle. Additionally, it is recommended to not run more than 3 cycles within a year.

Lifestyle Changes During Your Off Season:

During the course of your PCT, you may experience things like fatigue and fluctuations in appetite. So you may need to make adjustments to your on-cycle lifestyle. For starters, rest during this time is important. Your body needs time to restore and recalibrate from its fluctuating hormones. However, this doesn’t mean don’t train.

You’ll just need to be mindful of not overtraining. That being said, you’ll still want to keep the intensity high in order to maintain the muscle mass. You may want to reduce training volume, while focusing more on the weight you’re lifting. Therefore, you may find it optimal to reduce reps/sets and increase weight.

Another key part of your PCT is your nutrition. The big players in your nutritional adjustments include your calorie intake, macronutrient intake, and water intake. Calories wise, depending on the type of cycle you were on (cutting/bulking), you’ll want to adjust your calories to maintenance or just above maintenance. In order, to not lose your gained muscle mass, you’ll need to take extra care in feeding the recovery process.

However, you don’t want to overcompensate as this may result in fat storage. During which, you may want to keep a mindful eye on your macronutrients. Overconsumption of protein does not put your body in an advantageous state and neither will under consumption of carbs and fat. We’ll go over their role in the next section.

What To Look For In A PCT?

With so many different ingredients claiming to be the best for your PCT, it’s time to go over what has scientific evidence backing it.

But before we dive into the ingredients, let’s go over a general question we get in this area:

What’s the difference between a testosterone booster and a PCT?

First off, this is a great question. Mostly because it presents an issue we see often in supplements regarding product/ingredient classifications. The issue being that with categorizing these ingredients by specific uses, it appears these ingredients only have these singular use. And that’s often not the case.

Take, for example, fat burners and pre workouts. They sound very different. But when diving into the label of most of these products, you’ll see a lot of crossover. For starters, most often you’ll stimulants like caffeine in both a fat burner and pre workouts. Just because you consume caffeine from a pre workout, doesn’t mean it won’t have the appetite suppressing and thermogenic effects discussed in a fat burner. (7)

Likewise, when you compare a testosterone booster and a PCT, you’ll find a lot of crossover ingredients. The major difference between these types of products is why you’re using it. So while your PCT may need more support than what’s seen in a general natural testosterone booster, if you weren’t coming off of a prohormone, you could still take a PCT to boost testosterone.

Now let’s discuss what your PCT should consist of!

Testosterone Repair:

Naturally, you’ll need to elevate your natural testosterone levels and there’s a lot of ingredients that can help in this area.

The following list has been identified to increase testosterone: (8)

*Please note this list does not indicate the level at which testosterone is increased.

Anacyclus pyrethrum
Bulbine natalensis
Epicatechin
Eurycoma longifolia extract
Fenugreek extract
Horney goat weed extract
L-Arginine
L-Carnitine
Magnesium
Mucuna purine
Pantothenic acid
Selenium
Shilajit
Tongkat ali extract

Does this list seem short to you? Don’t worry, there are other ingredients that may aid in boosting testosterone, but they have conflicting evidence. This includes some popular ingredients like:

Ashwagandha extract
Boron
Caffeine
Calcium
D-Aspartic acid
Dehydroepiandrosterone
Garlic
Ginseng
Maca Extract
Resveratrol
Vitamin D
Zinc

Now that doesn’t these ingredients won’t help at all, it just means they’re no guarantee they’ll boost your testosterone. So you may want to look for products that in the very least, feature a combination of these lists.

Estrogen Modulation:

The next function of PCT you’ll want to factor in is the estrogen modulation. The most common and popular ingredient for this is Arimistane (also seen as Androsta 3,5-dien-7, 17-dione).

Categorically, ingredients and products that block estrogen is referred to as Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs). By blocking the conversion of testosterone to estradiol through inhibiting the aromatase enzyme, serum testosterone can be indirectly increased. This process increases gonadotropin-releasing hormone, LH, and follicle-stimulating hormone levels, subsequently increasing serum testosterone levels. (9)

You can actually take arimistane on its own, click HERE to check it out.

Outside of arimistane, there are other natural ingredients and extracts that may exhibit aromatase inhibition like Agaricus bisporus (white button mushrooms) and Vitis L.(grape and/or wine). (10) However, there does seem to be a stronger efficiency from arimistane. (11)

While AI can aid in blocking estrogen and increase testosterone, a testosterone booster can aid in increasing testosterone and increasing the bioavailability of testosterone. This can be seen in improvements in mood and libido.

estrogen in men infograph

Prostate Support/DHT Inhibition:

Another element you’ll have to be wary of during and after your cycle is the effects it may cause on your prostate. Where AAS are known to cause an increase in prostatic volume, reduction in urine flow rate and an alteration in voiding patterns.(12)

The following ingredients may aid in prostate support and DHT inhibition: (13,14)

Resveratrol
Saw palmetto
Pygeum africanum
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) (15)
Stinging Nettle Extract (Root)

Additionally, with the increase in free testosterone and growth hormone, comes an increased risk of prostate cancer. Please keep this in mind while deciding if a prohormone cycle is the best option for you. (16)

Cardiovascular Support:

Outside of what you’d expect to need support in, you may want to consider heart supporting supplements or ingredients. This is due to the risk of cardiovascular issues with prohormone and AAS usage. Among those risks include the potential to increase blood pressure. Therefore, individuals with ongoing cardiovascular issues may need to avoid prohormones and AAS. (17)

Evidence on the relationship between dietary supplements and cardiovascular support can be limited and often there is not a consensus. However, some products and ingredients that may be beneficial can include: (18,19,20,21)

Multivitamins
Vitamin D
Fish Oil
Coenzyme Q10
Probiotics
Pine Bark Extract
Grape Seed Extract
Policosanol

Liver Support:

Having liver support ingredients in your PCT can be beneficial for supporting your liver in clearing out toxins and supporting your metabolism. While most prohormones available now are formulated to avoid liver toxicity, it may be beneficial for some individuals to stay on the safe side. And other things outside of your prohormone usage can play a role in how well you liver functions. Such as combining prohormone usage with alcohol. (22) Some key ingredients in for liver support can include: (23)

Milk Thistle Extract
Silybin Extract Complex (as milk thistle extract)
Curcuminoids like Curcumin
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) (15)

Additionally, there is some limited research on ingredients that may negatively affect liver health. You may want to keep this in mind while comparing labels and thinking of stacking products. (24)

Ephedra
Green Tea (Camellia sinensis)
Garcinia Cambogia
Kava
Saw Palmetto
Usnic Acid

Popular PCTs:

Luckily, there are a bunch of PCTs available today that cover the majority of what you’d want from PCT and then some extra.

Arimiplex By Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals
HellRaiser By Innovative Labs
PCT-V By Blackstone Labs
RPCT By Repp Sports

Arimiplex by Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals:

This PCT features 4 blends covering all the areas we mentioned above. Within these blends we want to highlight the following ingredients:

Prostate Support and DHT Inhibition Complex: 250 mg

Saw Palmetto Extract (Fruit)✔
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)✔
Pygeum Extract (Bark)✔
Stinging Nettle Extract (Root)✔

Testosterone and LH Support and Aromatase Inhibitor: 37.5 mg

Androsta 3,5-dien-7, 17-dione✔
Fenugreek Extract (50% Furastanol Saponins)(Seed) 125 mg✔
Tribulus Terrestris Extract (Minimum 90% Saponins) (Aerial Parts and Fruit) 167 mg

Cardiovascular Support: 150 mg

Pine Bark Extract✔
Grape Seed Extract (95% Proanthocyanidins)✔
Policosanol✔

Liver Support: 360 mg

Milk Thistle Extract (80% Silymarin)(Seed)✔

While Tribulus Terrestris Extract (TT) is a common ingredient in testosterone boosters, the research backing it has been inconsistent. However, we would like to highlight that research indicates that TT may be beneficial for (25)

Arimiplex Review By N/A: “This product work very very well I love the balance !!! A great combination of prohormones vitamins herbs minerals a must-have in oil post Cycle Therapy.”

HellRaiser by Innovative Labs:

Like Arimiplex, HellRaiser also contains extensive blends that cover each area of PCT. Additionally, their formulas are nearly the same!

Prostate Support and DHT Inhibition Complex: 250 mg

Saw Palmetto Extract (Fruit)✔
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)✔
Pygeum Extract (Bark✔
Stinging Nettle Extract (Root)✔

Testosterone and LH Support and Aromatase Inhibitor: 50 mg

Androsta 3,5-dien-7, 17-dione✔
Fenugreek Extract (50% Furastanol Saponins)(Seed) 125 mg✔
Tribulus Terrestris Extract (Minimum 90% Saponins) (Aerial Parts and Fruit), Bulbine Natalensis Extract 167 mg

Cardiovascular Support: 150 mg

Pine Bark Extract 95%✔
Grape Seed Extract (95% Proanthocyanidins)✔

Liver Support: 360 mg

Milk Thistle Extract (80% Silymarin)(Seed)✔

HellRaiser Review By Timothy: “Has high concentration of blockers compared to most other aromatase inhibitors. Also, supports live and organ function, smells better than some of the other inhibitors, but smells more like broccoli/asparagus, others I’ve taken smell like moth balls. Good product, highly recommend.”

PCT-V by Blackstone Labs:

Unlike both Arimiplex and HellRaiser, PCTV doesn’t contain blends. Rather, each ingredient is listed with it’s dosage. This makes it easier to compare between products and to evaluate the potential effectiveness. However, we would state this formula is rather short. Depending on your history with prohormones or AAS you may want to add an additional testosterone support like Apex Male.

Tribulus Terrestris 250mg
Saw Palmetto Berry Extract 160mg✔
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) 125mg✔
Arimistane (Androsta-3,5-diene-7,17-dione)37.5mg✔
5-alpha-hydroxy Laxogenin 25mg

Additionally, you can see the last ingredient in this formula is 5-alpha-hydroxy Laxogenin or just Laxogenin for short. This ingredient is considered a plant steroid, meaning its nonhormonal. Some users find that this ingredient aids in recovery and muscle growth, but this will vary person to person. If you want to read more about laxogenin, click HERE.

PCT-V Review By Birger: “Taking with metha quad so far so good”

R PCT by Repp Sports:

This is the last product we’ll feature in this guide, but there are a ton of other PCTs available. R PCT features a combination of Blends and a disclosed label. Making it clear which ingredient is intended to do what.

Starting with the top of the label, you have Vitamin D3 (2000UI)✔. This ingredient is not within a blend, but supports many bodily functions, including cardiovascular support.

Anabolic Test Amplifier (555mg)

Ashwagandha Root Extract (300mg)✔
Coleus Forskohlii (125mg)
Mucuna Pruriens (100mg)✔
5-Alpha Hydroxy Laxogenin (25mg)
Black Pepper Extract (5mg)

Estrogen Control (275mg)

Diindolymethane (DIM) (200mg)
Androsta-3, 5-Diene-7, 17-Dione (Arimistane) (75mg)✔

Liver Regeneration Matrix (400mg)

N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) (400mg)✔

Coleus Forskohlii is another ingredient with mixed reviews on its ability to improve testosterone levels. However, there is some research backing it. (26) Within the same blend, you can see Black Pepper Extract. This ingredient may not improve testosterone in itself, but it may aid in increasing the bioavailability of the other ingredients. (27) The last ingredient in this formula we haven’t covered is DIM, which may aid in inhibiting estrogen (28). But, there have been associations between DIM and hair loss.

RPCT Review By Robert: “I tried a couple from my buddy and then afterwards got a bottle for myself. This stuff works well. Perfect post dude!”

Wrapping Up!

And this marks the end of our post on Post Cycle Therapy (PCTs). Thank you for reading! And as always, if there was something that wasn’t clear, another question you might have, or if you have another idea for a blog, Email Us!

Are you looking for more to read? Checkout our other blogs!

Warnings And Side Effects:

Products in this post are intended for healthy athletes aged 21 and older. Keep out of reach of children. Before using these products, seek advice from your pharmacist or a physician. Avoid using these products if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. Additionally, you should consult your physician prior to use if you are taking any other medications.

Discontinue use immediately if you experience rapid heartbeat, dizziness, vomiting or other similar symptoms. Side effects may include acne, hair loss, or increased aggressiveness.

Do not use if you are:

Nursing, pregnant, or plan to become pregnant
Prone to dehydration
Exposed to excessive heat

Product in this post may contain ingredients that may be banned by some sports organizations and/or increase risk of false positive on a drug test. Please consult with your sport organization or physician before taking this product. Manufacturers recommend taking PCTs in conjunction with a blood test to watch hormonal impact. Do not exceed suggested dosages.

ALLERGEN: Manufactured in a plant that also processes milk, egg, soy, peanut, fish, crustaceans/shellfish, tree nuts and wheat products.

Disclaimer:

†Please note the intention of the information provided is for reference only. Furthermore, we are in no way providing medical advice or instruction. Instead, the information provided in this guide/blog utilizes anecdotal information and available studies/reviews. While our goal is to maintain and display accurate information, we can’t guarantee it represents the latest formulation of the product or information. Therefore, please visit the manufacturer’s website if you have any concerns. Also, the information above does not represent our views here at Same Day Supplements. Instead, these are the manufacturers’ and users’ views and information. Additionally, the Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated these statements. Finally, the intention of these products is not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or illness.