When athletes or bodybuilders complete a cycle of anabolic steroids or prohormones, the body’s natural testosterone production is often suppressed. Without proper recovery, this can lead to low energy, loss of muscle, mood swings, and other side effects. Post-cycle therapy (PCT) is the process of restoring the body’s natural hormone balance, and it’s one of the most important steps in protecting both health and hard-earned gains.
For years, Clomid (clomiphene citrate) and Nolvadex (tamoxifen citrate) have been the most popular SERMs (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators) used in PCT. Recently, however, a newer option has been gaining attention — Enclomiphene Citrate.
What is Enclomiphene Citrate?
Enclomiphene Citrate is a selective estrogen receptor modulator, like Clomid, but it contains only the enclomiphene isomer — the part of clomiphene responsible for stimulating the hypothalamus and pituitary to produce more LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone).
These hormones signal the testes to produce more testosterone and sperm, making enclomiphene particularly useful for secondary hypogonadism (low testosterone caused by poor signaling from the brain).
Unlike Clomid, enclomiphene does not contain zuclomiphene, an isomer linked to mood swings, vision problems, and other unwanted side effects. This makes it a “cleaner” option for many users.
Medical and Sports Uses
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Medical: Primarily researched for treating men with low testosterone without compromising fertility.
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Sports/Bodybuilding: Used in PCT to restore natural testosterone after anabolic steroid use, helping maintain muscle mass and prevent estrogen rebound.
Typical Dosage
Medical use (prescribed):
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12.5 mg to 25 mg daily, adjusted according to bloodwork.
Sports/PCT use (anecdotal):
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Week 1–2: 25 mg daily
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Week 3–4: 12.5 mg daily
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Week 5–6 (optional, after heavy cycles): 12.5 mg every other day
Bloodwork is essential to confirm recovery.
Enclomiphene vs Clomid vs Nolvadex
| Feature | Enclomiphene Citrate | Clomid (Clomiphene Citrate) | Nolvadex (Tamoxifen Citrate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | SERM (pure enclomiphene isomer) | SERM (mix of enclomiphene + zuclomiphene) | SERM |
| Main Action | Blocks estrogen in hypothalamus/pituitary → ↑ LH/FSH → ↑ testosterone | Same as enclomiphene, but zuclomiphene may cause more sides | Blocks estrogen in breast tissue, also increases LH/FSH |
| Typical Dose (PCT) | 25 mg/day → taper to 12.5 mg/day | 50 mg/day → taper to 25 mg/day | 20–40 mg/day → taper to 10–20 mg/day |
| Onset of Effect | Fast — testosterone rises within days | Fast, but more mood/vision sides | Moderate, smoother rise |
| Side Effects | Usually mild — headaches, mild nausea | Mood swings, depression, blurred vision | Mild GI upset, rare vision issues |
| Estrogen Control | Indirect | Indirect | Strong breast tissue anti-estrogen effect |
| Mood/Emotional Impact | Usually stable | More risk of irritability, depression | Usually stable |
| Use Cases | Cleaner SERM for PCT, fewer sides | Traditional, widely used | Often stacked with other SERMs |
| Popular Brands | Androxal, Enclomid | Clomid, Serophene | Nolvadex, Tamifen |
Why Choose Enclomiphene?
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Fewer emotional side effects compared to Clomid
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No zuclomiphene isomer
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Fast testosterone recovery
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Suitable for those who want to keep fertility intact
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Can be used alone or stacked with Nolvadex for stronger estrogen rebound prevention
Example Enclomiphene PCT Protocol
4–6 Week Plan:
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Weeks 1–2: 25 mg daily
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Weeks 3–4: 12.5 mg daily
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Weeks 5–6 (optional): 12.5 mg every other day (for longer/heavier cycles)
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Optional: Add Nolvadex 10–20 mg daily if estrogen rebound is a concern
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Lifestyle: Eat well, train moderately, get 7–9 hours of sleep, avoid alcohol
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Bloodwork: Test total/free testosterone, LH, FSH, estradiol before and after PCT
Popular Brand Names
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Androxal – Clinical research/trial product
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Enclomid – Common name in the research chemical market
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Generic Enclomiphene Citrate – Compounding pharmacies, research labs
Final note:
Enclomiphene offers a more modern, side-effect-friendly option for post-cycle recovery compared to traditional Clomid. It can be used alone or in combination with Nolvadex depending on the cycle, recovery needs, and estrogen control requirements. As always, bloodwork and proper planning are essential for an effective and safe PCT.