How do I limit estrogen production and get my natural testosterone working?
The most popular PCT method recommended on steroid boards and by word of mouth is the use of Anastrozole (Arimidez), Clomiphen Citrate (Clomid), and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG). Arimidex is an aromatase enzyme inhibitor, which means it effectively decreases the conversion of androgens into estrogens. Clomid is a fertility drug that increases sperm production in males, and is also a weak anti-e in that it blocks estrogen receptors, tricking the hypothalamus into producing more GnRH stimulation. Finally, HCG is another female fertility drug that is used to increase Luteinizing Hormone production in males, which stimulates testosterone production in the testicles.
That is a pretty potent three pronged attack on your HPTA to stimulate natural production of hormones again, you are lowering the escalating estrogen levels, and you are re-stimulating the testicle production of testosterone, and essentially re-starting the feedback loop through the GnRH. But we are still missing something, the creation of circulating androgens again.
Next on the list is cortisol inhibition. Cortisal is a very potent, catabolic, muscle eating hormone, that is released in times of stress, or in conjunction with estrogen to lower excessive testosterone production. If we can suppress cortisol, then we will be able to limit the amount of amino acid loss through catabolism, thereby creating a more anabolic environment. Cytadren has been shown to lower cortisol levels but this product must be used is short term cycles, exactly what we want to do with PCT.
The final product that should be added to this mix to complete the full array and feedback stimulation is Proviron, an oral androgen. While this product will not make the body produce testosterone (we already have that covered), it will increase sperm count, as well as compensate for the lack of a natural androgen. The other benefit of using Proviron is that it is a mild anti-aromatase, allowing you to use a smaller amount of Arimidex, while still helping to prevent the buildup of estrogen.
