
Originally Posted by
Kenlie
You might consider adding HCG to your pct, to restore normal testicular function... if you want to have kids some day.
Clomid:
It is a SERM (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator) which acts by actually binding to the estrogen receptor and thereby blocking estrogen from doing the same. Clearly, this is advantageous when it binds to breast tissue, and prevents estrogen from binding there to cause gynocomastia (although it is not nearly as effective as nolvadex for this purpose). It also opposes the negative feedback loop that the body has with regards to estrogen and the HPTA (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular-Axis), and this in turn stimulates LH (Leutenizing Hormone) and FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone). LH and FSH, in turn stimulate the release of testosterone. Clearly this is advantageous to bodybuilders and athletes coming off of a cycle, and beginning their post-cycle-therapy. What we have in Clomid is essentially a drug that acts as a preventative measure against gynocomastia, as well as a drug that acts to raise endogenous (natural) testosterone levels. Usually, it is compared with another SERM, Nolvadex, for those reasons.
In short, clomid restores your natural testosterone levels, and prevent gyno.
HCG:
HCG is a glycoprotein composed of 237 amino acids and has a mass of 36.7kDa. HCG basically "acts" as Leutenizing Hormone (LH) in your body. LH is a Gonadotropin. They were first extracted from the human in 1958; more precisely the pituitary glands. A gonadotropin is any substance that stimulates the gonads (ovary, testes). It is heterodimeric (initiates prophase of mitosis) with an alpha subunit identical to LH (luteinizing hormone), FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). LH is as stated above is called a gonadotropin because it stimulates the gonads (testes). It is produced in the pituitary cells and is made up of a beta chain of 115 amino acids and an alpha chain of 89 amino acids. In the testes, the LH binds to receptors on the leydig cells which in turn stimulate the synthesis and secretion of testosterone. Like LH, FSH is also called a gonadotropin. It consists of a beta chain of 115 amino acids and an alpha chain of 89 amino acids, the same as LH. Production and release of FSH is controlled by GnRH (gonadotropin releasing hormone). FSH stimulates testicular growth and supports the function of sertoli cells, which are needed for sustaining maturing sperm cells.
Ideal PCT is running all 3, HCG+nolva+clomid, but it gets more expensive.