And no matter how much we are “warned” about the “terrible” and sometimes “deadly” consequences of using steroids by non-professional media and people who know about steroids at the level of “a woman said on a bench near the entrance,” more and more people start using steroids.
First of all, due to the availability of information about the properties and potential harm of steroids.
If desired, any willing and sensible person can study information about steroids from various sources and “separate the wheat from the chaff.” Evaluate all the pros and cons, and draw a conclusion for yourself: “The devil is not as scary as he is painted.”
Having studied the information about AS, a person understands that the use of steroids can lead to a number of side effects that are inherent in steroids as medications.
But he also understands that almost all “side effects” can be blocked by taking appropriate medications.
But despite the abundance of information about the correct use of steroids, the vast majority of athletes, according to statistics, about 80%, begin their “steroid journey” thoughtlessly.
They ignore the main rule - They do not monitor health indicators before, during and after a course of steroids.
In order to determine your health indicators before the course, and whether, in your particular case, it is possible AT ALL BLOOD TEST indicators and (if necessary) diagnostic studies of internal organs are used.
In turn, without tests (hormonal panel), it is not possible to correctly design a course and complete recovery on PCT.
Pharma UA online store is against the thoughtless and illiterate use of steroids, so we decided to write this article in which you will learn:
- Why and what tests need to be taken before a course of steroids and what indicators need to be taken into account when drawing up a course.
- What tests need to be taken during the course.
- What tests need to be taken after the course.
Medical examination for steroid use[edit | edit code]
Yuzhakov Anton Blood tests. List of basic tests. How and when to get tested correctly
Yuzhakov Anton WHY KEEP ESTRADIOL IN THE NORMAL COURSE AND HOW TO DO IT
Yuzhakov Anton Analyzes throughout the course and point starting from 2:25
Yuzhakov Anton Tests for the condition of the liver 1:20
Everyone knows that taking anabolic steroids is associated with health risks. However, the athlete has a number of tools in his arsenal that can prevent and eliminate most complications. Many problems cannot be identified without additional examinations, and when they begin to manifest themselves, treatment will be less effective. That is why, before and after the course, medical blood tests are required, as well as examination of internal organs for hidden pathological changes.
Where can I get a blood test and other tests?[edit | edit code]
- You can contact your GP and ask him to order a series of tests, which will be described below, referring to health problems. The therapist can prescribe an examination either personally or give a referral to another specialist (endocrinologist), who will take care of you in the future.
- To avoid unnecessary questions, you can contact a private clinic or laboratory (currently they are in almost every city, you can choose which blood or urine indicators you are interested in). The only drawback is that you will have to pay for all the necessary tests and diagnostics.
Why get tested before, during and after a steroid cycle?
If you are firmly convinced that you need pharmacological support, then you should know: any intervention in the hormonal system of your body can lead to irreparable consequences that can lead to disability and even death.
However, not everything is as bad as it might seem at first glance, because, from the same aspirin , you can also die if you exceed the recommended dosage several times.
Anabolic steroids are hormonal, synthetic drugs that imitate the action of the male sex hormone testosterone .
That is, in other words, an athlete taking steroids injects himself with artificial testosterone, which has a powerful effect on the hormonal system. That is why it is not correct to compare, for example, aspirin with anabolic steroids.
We hope you are convinced that taking anabolic steroids is associated with a certain risk to the athlete’s health. And in order to minimize , it is necessary to take certain actions - take tests on time, primarily blood and urine , by which one could assess the state of one’s health.
It is worth noting that, like any drug, anabolic steroids also have their contraindications , some more, some less (depending on the type of anabolic, as well as on the method of its use: oral or injectable).
In addition, do not forget that athletes may not know that they have diseases of internal organs, for which the use of anabolic steroids is generally contraindicated, for example, liver failure , high blood pressure, hepatitis, kidney disease, and so on. In order to exclude this, so to speak, not to aggravate the situation of your health, it is necessary to undergo tests.
Why get tested when you plan to take anabolic steroids?
And of course, we must not forget that the “chemical” course, in itself, is a certain test for the body, because there is a direct intervention in the hormonal system. Therefore, in order not to pick up a “bouquet” of sores, you need to notice in time that the body is malfunctioning, and begin to take appropriate steps towards resolving the problem (by the way, this is why you also need to do PCT - post-cycle therapy).
Thus, we can summarize that taking tests, especially blood and urine, when taking anabolic steroids is mandatory , because it helps:
- avoid health problems
- minimize side effects
- PCT correctly
- identify existing health problems in the body
- prescribe the correct treatment
In addition, taking tests before and after a steroid course will help you identify a “ working ” and “not working” pharmacological drug.
What blood and urine tests are required?[edit | edit code]
Conversion table for measurement units of hormones
Let's list all the necessary diagnostic measures in sequential order, determine the feasibility, and also indicate the degree of need for them: mandatory tests are highlighted in red, yellow - of medium importance, green - of little use
. You can limit yourself to only red lists.
Before starting a course of steroids[edit | edit code]
Norm of sex hormones Norm of biochemical parameters Norm of adrenal hormones
At this stage, diagnosis is necessary primarily to identify contraindications to taking steroids. You can find contraindications in the article Side effects of steroids. If information is not indicated for increased and decreased levels, then this does not matter when using AS. If you have not been examined for the last 2-3 years and are starting to take anabolic steroids for the first time, then you should do the following:
Hormone tests
- Total and free testosterone
(read) -
set a baseline for comparison - FSH
(follicle stimulating hormone) -
set a baseline for comparison - LH
(luteinizing hormone, a natural analogue of gonadotropin) -
set a baseline level for comparison - Estrogens
(read) -
set baseline for comparison - Prolactin
(read) -
set a baseline level for comparison, if elevated, taking progestin drugs is not recommended - Progesterone
(read) -
set baseline for comparison - Cortisol
(read) -
set baseline for comparison - Thyroxine
(read) -
set a baseline for comparison
General blood analysis
- Red blood cells
-
detection of blood pathology - Leukocytes
-
immune disorders
Blood chemistry
- Glucose
-
if elevated, during the course its level will increase even more (diabetes). - Cholesterol (HDL, triglycerides)
(read) -
if elevated, the risk of developing atherosclerosis increases. Important for people over 35. - Liver enzymes
-
if elevated, rule out liver disease - Protein (total, globulins, albumins)
-
if low, kidney and liver disease is possible - Bilirubin
-
if elevated, rule out liver disease - Potassium, sodium, magnesium
-
if reduced, seizures may develop during the course, in this case additional intake is necessary
Analysis of urine
- Urea if elevated, rule out kidney disease
- Creatinine if elevated, rule out kidney disease
Instrumental methods
- Blood pressure measurement
must also be performed during the course - ECG
-
to detect heart pathology - ECHO-CG
-
to detect heart pathology - Ultrasound of the liver
-
to detect liver pathology, especially if bilirubin and enzymes are elevated
2-3 weeks after the course[edit | edit code]
Hormone tests
- Total and free testosterone
(read) -
almost always low - LH
(luteinizing hormone, a natural analogue of gonadotropin) is
almost always low - Estrogens
(read) -
if elevated, it is necessary to use antiestrogens - Prolactin
-
necessary if progestin steroids (nandrolone) were taken. - Cortisol
(read) -
if elevated, cortisol blockers are needed
Blood chemistry
- Glucose
-
should be normal; if elevated, additional diagnosis of iatrogenic diabetes may be required - Cholesterol (LDL, triglycerides)
-
if elevated, a course of treatment is necessary to reduce the level - Liver enzymes
-
if elevated, hepatoprotectors must be taken - Bilirubin
-
if elevated, it is necessary to take hepatoprotectors - Potassium, sodium, magnesium
-
necessary if cramps occur
Instrumental method
- ECG
-
to detect heart pathology
2-3 months after the course[edit | edit code]
Hormone tests
- Total and free testosterone
(read) -
if it is low, it is necessary to stimulate secretion with boosters and gonadotropin - LH
(luteinizing hormone, a natural analogue of gonadotropin) -
necessary only if testosterone is low, to determine why it is low - Estrogens
(read) -
if elevated, it is necessary to use antiestrogens - Cortisol
(read) -
if elevated, cortisol blockers are needed - Repeat other tests that were not within normal limits
Analyzes during a course of anabolic steroids
After starting steroid use, it is important to evaluate all the same indicators. A more detailed comprehensive medical examination during a course of steroids is required if adverse reactions, side effects occur, or if laboratory test results are abnormal. Timely diagnosis and careful attention to your own health will help prevent the disease.
More on the topic:
How steroids affect the human body
While using steroids, it is recommended to periodically undergo the following examinations:
1. Control of blood pressure.
It is recommended to perform before and after training several times a week.
2. Liver tests and ultrasound of the abdominal organs
Twice a year.
3. Hormonal panel:
prolactin, testosterone, estrogen. You may need to adjust the dose of the anabolic steroid or replace the drug. Prolactin may not be controlled if you take methane and testosterone preparations without progestin.
4. Glucose, insulin, TSH, T3, T4.
Steroids are classified as counter-steroids, meaning they increase blood sugar levels. To prevent the development of diabetes, control of all hormones that are involved in the regulation of glucose balance is carried out.
Recommendations before taking tests[edit | edit code]
- Tests must be taken on an empty stomach.
There is no problem in skipping breakfast. Food distorts test results. After taking glucose, testosterone levels may decrease. [1] - Avoid sexual activity 24 hours before testing
. This can affect both prolactin levels and LH, FSH and Testosterone levels. - Avoid physical activity at least 48 hours before testing. Research shows that training (including cardio sessions) has a strong effect on androgen and thyroid hormone levels.[2][3]
- It is recommended to take tests in the morning and after a good sleep. Stress can distort test results.[4]
Pressure check
In addition to passing certain tests, before a course of steroids you should definitely check the functioning of your cardiovascular system, which happens by measuring the athlete’s blood pressure. It is better to do this when you are completely calm and relaxed. And if it is clear that even at rest your blood pressure is elevated, then you should expect that it will rise even more in the future. This will happen due to the use of drugs with progestogenic activity or strong shock absorption, which will increase the amount of water in the body. Therefore, if you see that you have high blood pressure, you will need to abandon strong steroids in favor of weaker drugs. It is also advisable to check your blood pressure during the course of taking medications in order to adjust their intake, if necessary.
“Everyone goes to Asia for steroids”
Athletes say that ordering a drug banned in Russia through an online store is not a problem, if only you had the money. According to doctors, the main problem with such drugs is that it is most often impossible to determine their composition and manufacturer. Especially when it comes to dietary supplements that pass pharmaceutical control.
Nevertheless, Asian drugs are becoming increasingly popular among Russian athletes. Some even specially fly to Thailand, where steroids are freely available, and send them by parcel to Russia in their name.
Dmitriy:
— Athletes travel to Asia to take a course or simply improve their health. Asian doctors are well versed in what should be done, how it should be, and how to correctly formulate a course. If we talk about Russia, our market for steroid drugs is not developing, because these drugs are banned. In Yekaterinburg, everything is even worse: the market here is artisanal.
|
Online stores recommend starting with something simple and advise choosing a course starting from 15 thousand rubles.
Anton, athlete:
— The drugs are prohibited by Russian law, but with the development of the Internet, nothing complicated can happen. Compared to some other drugs in pharmacies, steroids are cheap in online stores. Of course, everything depends on the quantity and quality of drugs, but people with average incomes can easily afford pharmacology. On average, the price per month is from 5 thousand rubles. For professionals, these numbers are very high.
Dmitriy:
— You can buy fierce chemicals for 5 thousand rubles, but you can not save on your health, and then the course will cost 50–100 thousand rubles.
The athlete adds that there is no problem getting the right drug in Yekaterinburg. As a rule, every fitness club has a person with the right connections. The main question is to draw up the right course to avoid side effects.
Sudden death syndrome and other side effects
The drugs are produced by different pharmaceutical companies, but have similar side effects. Doctors divide them into two types: delayed and those that occur immediately. The liver is the first to suffer. The organs cannot cope with the volume of toxic substances (so-called “toxic hepatitis” in this case is a common occurrence). An increase in blood pressure is also guaranteed. But while for some it may go unnoticed, for others it is the path to a stroke.
Natalya Trelskaya, Deputy Chief Physician for Therapy of City Clinical Hospital No. 40, Doctor of Medical Sciences:
— Athletes forget that it’s not just the muscles of the arms and legs that are being built. In the same way, the heart muscle is also exposed to the drug, which thickens significantly. As a result, the muscles grow quickly, but the blood supply system cannot keep up with them (the blood vessels do not enlarge). A heavily overgrown muscle receives insufficient nutrition, which leads to heart attacks, heart rhythm disturbances, and disability. Therefore, young, seemingly healthy men and women can have serious heart problems, including sudden death syndrome. Cases where famous bodybuilders died because of this are known to everyone. (One of the high-profile cases is the death of security officer, wrestler and TV presenter Vladimir Turchinsky, who died in 2009 from a heart attack - note 66.RU.)
The use of steroids during adolescence leads to stunting of growth, so these drugs are prohibited worldwide for use by people under 18 years of age (except when the drug is prescribed for replacement purposes). In both adolescents and adults, long-term use of steroid drugs can cause mental problems. In people who took steroids for a long time, doctors noted a tendency towards depression.
Natalia Trelska:
— A person can use steroid drugs for a long time and feel comfortable. As a rule, it seems to him that he is full of energy, and may even experience euphoria. But as soon as he stops taking them, a period of recoil begins. Along with a decrease in libido comes pronounced depression, sometimes even to the point of suicidal thoughts and attempts. A person can experience mood swings - from colossal aggression to depression. Living with him during this period is very difficult, and not only he, but also his loved ones suffer from this.
To get out of this state, people usually start taking medications again. The result is addiction—without them, they no longer feel normal.
Doctors include the risk of developing cancer - liver and prostate cancer - as long-term side effects. “This could happen in a few years. The patient no longer even remembers that he was once fond of bodybuilding, and does not associate the illness with taking steroid drugs,” says Natalya Trelskaya.
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Release in audio (mp3) format:
You can find all episodes in audio format HERE
ANALYSIS OF HORMONES, ETC. PARAMETERS
Click on the table to enlarge.
A very interesting TABLE, friends. Study it carefully, because it will give you an understanding of things that are very important for any chemist. You see the NATURAL LIMITS of certain substances. How to find out how much of these substances is in your body? There is only one way for this - TEST!!!
Now it's not difficult at all. There would be a desire. We need MONEY and your BLOOD. Moreover, there is more of the first than the second. ONE ANALYSIS (one substance) most often costs approximately 10 USD. Prices may vary. Some laboratories do “batch” analysis of related hormones and then it can be cheaper. BUT, according to my observations, it usually costs about 10 US dollars per analysis. You can turn in VESE for about 100 USD…. Which is not a little, considering the fact that you need to take tests regularly. However, the effectiveness of your courses and their safety will increase significantly if you use such analyzes. You decide.
WHEN SHOULD TEST BE DONE? The more often the better. BUT you definitely need to get tested THREE TIMES:
- BEFORE THE COURSE
- IN THE MIDDLE OF THE COURSE
- AFTER THE COURSE
ANALYSIS BEFORE THE COURSE You already know the NORMAL RANGE (gaps) for men. Regarding these gaps, you can set a certain parameter to LOWER or INCREASE you before starting the course . From this we can ALREADY draw very important conclusions. For example, if YOUR PROGESTERONE IS HIGH, then you DO NOT want to use TRENBOLONE or NANDOROLONE (steroids with progestogenic activity). And if you have a high level of ESTRADIOL or PROLACTIN, then you do not want to use a lot of TESTOSTERONE or METHANE (drugs that easily aromatize). And if you do this, then only together with LETROZOL (for estradiol) or DOSTINEX (for prolactin).
The second most important thing that you can understand even before starting the course is the NATURAL INITIAL LEVEL of the hormone . The fact is that after a steroid course, the BALANCE of HORMONES is disturbed: there are LESS GOOD HORMONES (testosterone, LH, FSH), and MORE BAD HORMONES (estradiol, prolactin) . This is a natural phenomenon, because you have to pay for everything (for a big plus, you then get a minus). You need to know the INITIAL LEVEL in order to UNDERSTAND that the balance has returned to its natural value and you can make a new course . Not everyone bothers themselves with these observations. BUT, if you want to control something, then at least you must understand it.
ANALYSIS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE COURSE
During the cycle we REPLACE our natural good hormones (testosterone) with ARTIFICIAL good hormones (steroids) SO THE NATURAL LEVELS OF “GOOD” HORMONES WILL FALL. …. This applies to both testosterone and its precursors such as LH and FSH. Actually, from my point of view, it makes little sense to measure them on the course. WHAT TO MEASURE? Something that can cause harm during the course. Here's what you need to know for sure:
- CHOLESTEROL (HDL/LDL). If there is more “bad”, then increase the dose of “fish oil”
- LIVER (ENZYMS, BILIRUBIN) There will be inflated (bad) indicators, but you need to know for the future that you understand the acceptable norm and the excess one. Corsil will help.
- PRESSURE (BP) If the indicators are very critical, then you need to use pressure medications or reduce the dosage of androgens.
- ESTROGENS (ESTRADIOL) If there is a lot (above the concentration required for work), then add “letrazole”. The acceptable range can only be determined experimentally.
- PROLACTIN If there is a lot, then add Dostinex. The situation is the same as with estradiol. It will increase and if it becomes more than acceptable, then block it.
WHY DID I PUT ESTROGENS AND PROLACTIN IN LAST PLACE? Because the first time your analysis will not be able to help you. Due to aromatization, estrogen levels always increase during the course. How to understand “this is a lot” or “this is still tolerable” (after all, aromatization is necessary for growth)? Only by analyzing indicators for several courses. You can see at what numbers you had an increase in dry mass, at which “raw” mass, and at which numbers your nipples began to swell or the desire to climb onto a new girlfriend disappeared. With respect to these figures, in the future you will have an understanding of which rise in estrogen and prolactin levels is acceptable for you and which is dangerous (and you can lower it with letrazole and dostinex).
And if, to control the beneficial level of CHOLESTEROL, LIVER CONDITION and even PRESSURE, we can IMMEDIATELY TAKE PROTECTIVE DRUGS (from the very beginning of the course). With the level of female sex hormones, we cannot do this without risk to the course itself. After all, for large-scale growth we need an increased level of estrogen. WE NEED FLAVORS!! BUT ONLY TO A CERTAIN LEVEL , which we don’t know for sure yet. ANALYSIS AFTER THE COURSE
Post-course tests are needed to monitor the restoration of the natural BALANCE of “good” and “bad” hormones . The faster you restore balance, the sooner you can start a new course. In order to understand what is ok and what needs to be worked on, tests are needed after the course. It follows from this that it is advisable to do ANALYSIS AFTER THE COURSE SEVERAL TIMES!!!
WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT ANALYSIS?
TESTOSTERONE (TOTAL and FREE) After the course it will be lowered....then it will increase. Full recovery is an important parameter (you have returned your balance).
LH and FSH Most likely LH will be almost zero (this will be the reason for the low test)….then it will increase. It’s not very important immediately after the course (it will be lowered), but after a month it can show what the problem is with a low test. ESTROGENS (ESTRADIOL) If it is elevated (and it will almost always be elevated), then it will be necessary to suppress it with Letrozole.
PROLACTIN may be increased if nandrolone or trenbolone (steroids with progestogenic activity) were used. It needs to be turned off urgently.
CORTISOL will be increased. You need to reduce stress and loads and you can add anti-catabolics. After about 2-4 weeks, cortisol levels return to normal.
CHOLESTEROL (LDL/HDL) If there is no proportion, then “fish oil” will help us.
LIVER (ENZYMS and BILIRUBIN). The most important parameters. If your condition is not healthy, then it makes sense to drink Ornithine and Corsil
In my opinion, the most important points that need to be monitored after the course are the BALANCE of SEX HORMONES (male and female) and LIVER CONDITION! Moreover, if the LIVER CONDITION can be monitored passively (eat hepatoprotectors and don’t take a steam bath), then it is advisable to track the HORMONE BALANCE ACTIVELY . If the analysis shows, for example, that PROLACTIN is high, then this means that our procedures for restoring the HPA axis and testosterone levels will not be effective until we suppress the high level of prolactin with Dostinex. Here we come to a very important topic: After Course Therapy (PCT). It is PCT that will help us retain as much as possible of what we have gained and reduce the time for the next course.
ASTEROIDS: POST COURSE THERAPY (PCT)
FIRST OF ALL you must understand that without STEROIDS YOU WILL LOSE MUSCLE. ALWAYS!!! Whatever PCT you use. The arithmetic is very simple: even if your hormone system works perfectly, it creates on average (in men) 5 MG TEST / DAY (this is one 5 mg tablet of methane). Those. for 1 WEEK (7 DAYS) = 35 mg . Now remember how many hormones you used during the course? 700 TEST + 300 TREN + 210 METHANE = 1.210 MG/WEEK So COMPARE 35 mg (at best) AGAINST 1.210 mg . Do you feel the difference? Regarding the concentration of the hormone ON THE COURSE (1,210 mg/week), Vichy 35 mg (at best) does not change anything. YOU WILL LOSE MEAT because you will not have the required dosage to maintain such an unnatural amount. Another important point: even if you can QUICKLY restore the natural level around 5 MG/DAY, this will not fundamentally change anything because on the course you received 170 MG/DAY . Your 5 mg is too negligible to save your muscle.
CONCLUSION: THE OBJECTIVE OF PCT IS NOT TO SAVE MUSCLES! THE TASK IS NOT TO DESTROY THEM EVEN MORE THAN NATURE REQUIRES! Inept tinkering with the hormonal system and NOT REDUCING loads lead to even greater muscle loss than should occur naturally.
- THE BIGGER THE DOSE WERE = THE GREATER THE WEIGHT LOSS AFTER THE COURSE
- THE LONGER THE PAUSE BETWEEN COURSES = THE GREATER THE LOSS OF WEIGHT
- THE LESS THE DOSE ON THE COURSE = THE LESS THE LOSSES (BUT THE LESS THE GAINS)
- THE LONGER THE PAUSE BETWEEN COURSES = THE MORE COMPLETE THE RESTORATION OF BODY SYSTEMS
From THIS we can roughly determine the MAIN TASKS of the PCT:
- RESTORE “HORMONEAL” i.e. NATURAL BALANCE OF MALE / FEMALE HORMONES (most likely there will be little of the first, and too much of the second)
- RESTORING LIBIDO AND SPERMOTOGENESIS (this is an indirect task, because if we solve the first, then this will be solved automatically)
- RESTORING LIVER PERFORMANCE
- RESTORING CHOLESTEROL VALUES
- REDUCE CORTISOL AND NOT LOSE MORE MUSCLE THAN NATURE REQUIRES
These are the main directions of our movement. Now let's take everything in order. RESTORE “HORMONEAL” i.e. THE NATURAL BALANCE OF MALE / FEMALE HORMONES is often not so simple because there are usually few male hormones, and a lot of female hormones. WE NEED TO RETURN THE NATURAL PROPORTION OF TESTOSTERONE: ESTRADIOL (from 200: 1 to 300: 1). In this situation, the functioning of the male body will be HEALTHY!
WHAT Hinders recovery? Artificial testosterone (anabolic steroids). Therefore, in order to INCREASE NATURAL DOUGH production, you need to WAIT for the artificial one to stop working . because androgens inhibit the functioning of the hypothalamus (the production of LH and, accordingly, ITS TESTOSTERONE). RECOMMENDATION: CONSIDER THE HALF-LIFE OF THE STEROID (THE LAST INJECTION IN OUR CASE WILL LAST FOR ABOUT TWO WEEKS. That is, the 9th and 10th weeks will pass and only from the 11th will it be possible to actually do something with your native testosterone (raise it ).
WHAT ELSE HANDLES RECOVERY? Most often, ESTROGENS interfere with the recovery of TESTOSTERONE . The fact is that the course included AROMATIZATION, i.e. the conversion of testosterone into ESTRADIOL (female hormone) which triggers increased production of its “partner” PROLACTIN (pituitary hormone), which STRENGTHENS THE EFFECT OF ESTRADIOL!!! Do you understand what the difficulty is? If the level of estradiol has increased significantly, then the level of PROLACTIN has increased almost 100%. It is PROLACTIN that PRESSES THE RESTORATION OF THE Pituitary-Hypothalamus-Testicular (PHT) AXIS by interfering with the synthesis of Luteinizing Gorman (LH), which triggers the synthesis of TESTOSTERONE . In other words, you can suppress the level of ESTRADIOL (estrogen), but if the level of PROLACTIN is high, then TESTOSTERONE will not be restored.
Personally, I am sure that the first thing you should do is not to increase testosterone levels, but to DECREASE ESTRADIOL AND PROLACTIN LEVELS . Moreover, YOU NEED TO START LOWERING PROLACTIN AND ESTRADIOL LEVELS BEFORE PCT STARTS!!!! This is very important (BEFORE, not AFTER).
- ESTRADIOL decreases LETRAZOL (FENIRA)
- PROLACTIN lowers DOSTINEX
By lowering THEM, we will clear the way for GROWTH OF TESTOSTERONE, LIBIDO AND SPERMATOGENESIS. What additional training is needed for this? Most often NO!
The fact is that LETRAZOL , in addition to lowering estradiol levels, also STIMULATES THE GROWTH OF TESTOSTERONE LEVELS (through the release of LH and FSH). And it is very stimulating. 0.5 mg = + 50% TEST after two days. And 2.5 mg (one tablet) = + 75% TEST after two days . In other words, LETRAZOL does much better what CLOMID and TAMOXIFEN were previously used for on PCT (i.e., it blocks aromatization and increases testosterone)
WHEN and HOW TO START TAKEN? There are TWO main OPTIONS ( DURING THE COURSE or AT THE END OF THE COURSE with a transition to PCT ). DURING THE COURSE (IMMEDIATELY) IT IS MORE SAFE TO TAKE, but THE RISK IS HIGHER TO REDUCE MUSCLE GROWTH. AT THE END OF THE COURSE the opposite is true (more muscles, but a greater risk of getting gyno and other delights).
PREVENTIVE DOSAGE OF LETRAZOLE ON A COURSE = 1 tablet (2.5 mg)/WEEK (half a tablet on Monday and half on Thursday), or you can divide this tablet into 3 parts and eat for three days Mon, Wed, Fri. SYMPTOMS ELIMINATING DOSAGE OF LETRAZOLE (nipples, “congestion”) = 1 tablet/DAY (until disappearance, then switch to a preventive dosage of 1 tablet/WEEK.
DOSAGE OF LETRAZOLE IN PREPARATION FOR PCT = HALF A TABLET (1.25 mg) EVERY other day. START: 1 WEEK BEFORE YOUR LAST STEROID TAKE . DURATION: TWO WEEKS + REDUCED THE DOSE BY HALF (half a tablet every 4 days). Total duration: MONTH (1 week on course and 3 weeks PCT).
THE BEST DOSAGE OF LETRAZOLE IN A COURSE IS INDIVIDUAL!!! Those. you should only use LETRAZOLE when it is NEEDED. How to find out? TAKE A TEST FOR ESTRADIOL AFTER 3-4 WEEKS OF THE COURSE (we have long esters). The figure you get will most likely be OPTIMAL (there is aromatization, but it does not harm, it only helps). In the future, you need to TAKE TESTS in order to control EXCESS OF THIS FIGURE . In case of serious excess, you need to add a PREVENTIVE DOSAGE (1 tablet/WEEK). If there is NO INCREASE, then nothing needs to be added. THE ANALYSIS GIVES YOU EXACT GUIDELINES FOR TAKING ANTI-AROMATASE (LETRAZOLE) ON THE COURSE.
This usually DOES NOT NEED TO BE DONE IN EVERY AAC COURSE . Most often, after the course you will have an UNDERSTANDING of the rate at which aromatization occurs in your body from these steroids. You will understand WHETHER YOU NEED to add LETRAZOL DURING THE COURSE or NOT, if necessary, WHEN and IN WHAT QUANTITY. You won’t have to worry about BLOCKING the effect of steroids and you won’t have to worry about getting GYNO and other side effects caused by excessive aromatization. THIS IS WHAT THE PROS DO.
HOW TO TAKE DOSTINEX? The situation (blocking prolactin) is very similar to the previous one (blocking estradiol). Those. It is advisable not to take the drug right away, but to make sure that it is needed. However, I note that it is ESTRADIOL that STIMULATES PROLACTIN PRODUCTION , so if you accurately control the desired amount of aromatization, then, as a rule, you do not need to suppress prolactin (it is produced in moderation). On the other hand, when used as a preventative measure, Dostinex is less harmful to muscle growth than Letrazole.
DOSAGE: 0.25-0.5 mg/TWICE A WEEK . WHEN? It is best together with LETRAZOLE AT THE END OF THE COURSE (Before PCT, to lower PROLACTIN and free up LH for testosterone production).
WHAT TO DO WITH CLOMID AND TAMOXIFEN? For starters, here's what these preps do:
- CLOMID is a stronger LH stimulater, a weak anti-estrogen, does NOT suppress IGF-1 in the liver, does NOT increase LH receptors,
- TAMOXIFEN stimulates LH weaker, is a strong anti-estrogen, suppresses IGF-1 in the liver, increases LH receptors,
You see that CLOMID (CLOMIPHENE) is better at triggering TEST (LH stimulation), but worse at blocking estrogens. On the contrary, TAMOXIFEN (NOLVADEX) is better at blocking ESTROGENS, but worse at triggering testosterone production. Who is better? If you really need PCT, it is most often caused not by a low test, but by a high content of ESTRADIOL and PROLACTIN. Therefore, TAMOXIFEN, if you choose from these two, is BETTER!!!. However, to be honest, I would choose LETRAZOLE if I were not limited to Clomid and Tamoxifen. Why? There are many reasons. I'll give you at least one. TAMOXIFEN increases the number of PROGERSTERONE receptors , so if we use a progestogen drug on a cycle (TREN, anapalone or nandrolone), then we CANNOT use TAMOXIFEN!!!
AND STILL? WHAT ARE THE DOSES AND REGIMENS FOR TAMOX AND CLOMID? First you need to wait until the artificial hormones (steroids) wear off. After this, make “LOADING” and “WORKING” dosages. Typically, a “loading dose” of CLOMID of 50 mg x 4 = 200 mg is taken immediately throughout the day. And then they switch to an “increased working” dose of 50 x 2 = 100 mg for a week . After this, the “usual working” dose of 50 mg per day is taken for three weeks. If you are using TAMOXIFEN, then the dosages will be 80 mg (first day), 40 mg “increased working” and 20 mg per day “regular working”. Although personally, I usually immediately start with 20 mg (one tablet) per day.
HCG = TESTICAL RECOVERY
If we are talking about raising TESTOSTERONE levels, then we need to remember about hCG. It makes sense to take it ONLY DURING THE COURSE so that the body does not forget that it has TESTLES and such an important function as the production of SPERM and TESTOSTERONE . Essentially, hCG is LH (luteinizing hormone, which triggers the production of testosterone). In the presence of a large amount of artificial testosterone ON THE COURSE, your own LH will not be developed in order not to produce your own TESTOSTERONE (after all, someone else’s is enough ). BUT When you inject ARTIFICIAL LH (HCG) DURING A COURSE, YOU STIMULATE ONE OF THE MAIN LINKS OF TESTOSTERONE REPRODUCE BY BYPASSING THE ENTIRE HCG AXIS . Your factory, even if not at full capacity, is working (not completely rusting). Therefore, AFTER THE COURSE, TESTOSTERONE LEVELS RECOVER FASTER (the testicles do not fall asleep completely and are put to work faster).
WHAT IF I INJECT HCG AFTER THE COURSE? In my opinion, this is a bad idea, because it will not allow your “window” to turn on at full capacity. After all, hCG is an artificial substitute for natural LH. It turns out that you will not allow the GYA ARC to COMPLETELY recover. Your system will be dependent on someone else's LH (hCG) and will not strive to produce its own. WHEN AND HOW TO INJECT? There are, of course, different views on TIME and DOSES, but I adhere to the point of view that recommends INJECTION DURING THE COURSE and AT THE END OF THE COURSE (BEFORE PCT)
HCG RECOMMENDATIONS: my prescription is 2000 IU of gonadotropin THREE TIMES (1st, 3rd, 6th day) in the middle of the course and a week before its completion. ANOTHER OPTION: 500 IU for 10 days. (in the middle of the course and 10 days before its completion).
WHAT ABOUT PROVIRON? Proviron has THREE main functions:
- BLOCKING AROMATIZATION (into estrogens),
- BLOCKING SHBG (testosterone binding proteins),
- INCREASE LIBIDO
The first two things on PCT are not important, because we already have an AROMATASE INHIBITOR (LETRAZOLE), and the level of free testosterone in any case without chemistry is INNESS (it can be neglected, there will be no growth anyway). There remains help with LIBIDO , if you need it. In principle, if you have caught a “sluggish” one, it may be worth trying Proviron, but this is not a cure for the original problem. The original problem (high levels of “female” hormones) is being solved by more advanced comrades (Letrazole and Dostinex).
Perhaps PROVIRON IS MORE USEFUL IN THE COURSE due to its ability to “RELEASE” TESTOSTERONE (reduces the amount of SHBG) and a “softer” blocking of aromatization (which is needed on the mass). MY OPINION: IT IS ACCEPTABLE ON THE COURSE (ESPECIALLY IF THE COURSE IS DRYING OR LONG), ON PCT IT IS NOT THE MOST NECESSARY PREP because it does not restore its testosterone, unlike Letrazole or Tamoxifen! PROVIRON DOSES AND METHODS: ON THE COURSE Most often, 50 MG/DAY is used (divide the dose into two parts: morning and evening) for prevention against aromatization or for stiffness before competitions.
LIVER RESTORATION/PROTECTION
LIVER INDICATORS need to be RESTORED in several directions. First of all, the condition of the liver cells and the exchange of bile in the liver. DEFEAT is shown by two main tests: FOR BILIRUBIN (direct should not be, and direct should not be more than 20.5 millimoles per liter) and FOR LIVER ENZYMES (AlT and AsT ). preparations made from SILYMARINE really work : CARSIL, LEGALON, SILIBOR, etc. read the label.
METABOLISM/LIVER PROTECTION = CARSIL (10 tablets/day, i.e. THREE X 3 TIMES A DAY). In addition to restoring metabolism, this drug prevents the destruction of cell membranes. GOOD ON THE COURSE AND ON THE PCT
METABOLISM/PROTECTION = LEGALON Inhibits the penetration of toxins into the liver, stabilizes cell membranes, accelerates the regeneration of liver cells. Essentially the same as Karsil. DOSE: 2-3 TIMES A DAY, 1st (140 mg) tablet. GOOD ON THE COURSE AND ON THE PCT
NORMALIZATION OF BILE = FLAMIN (increases the secretion and outflow of bile, stimulates the production of gastric juice and digestion of food). USE: 0.05-.1 g THREE times a day 30 minutes before meals. GOOD ON THE COURSE
HEPTRAL (fights a wide range of liver pathologies, regenerates it, destroys bile acids). BUT HEPTRAL WORKS WELL ONLY IF YOU DROP IT INTO A VEIN (if it’s a pill, then only 5% of what you swallow is absorbed). CONCLUSION: PILLS DO NOT WORK!!! DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY!!! WHAT ABOUT ESSENTIAL? It is believed that ESSENTIALE is worse than CARSIL when it comes to toxic liver damage, BUT better when it comes to accelerating the growth of new liver cells. Those. For chemists, it seems that Corsil is better than Essentiale. The reality is much worse: ESSENTIALE DOESN'T WORK AT ALL (I don't recommend spending money on it)!!!!
ORNITINE (HEPA-MERZ) Believed to reduce elevated ammonia levels in liver disease and speed up protein metabolism . Therefore, advanced chemists often use it on PCT and are happy because tests show an improvement in LIVER ENZYMES. Unfortunately, this recovery is not due to ORNITINE, but to the fact that you removed the steroids or reduced their dosage, i.e. the liver renews itself and it’s not about ornithine. Take Ornithine during the course and you will see (unlike Karsil) that your liver parameters do not improve. CONCLUSION: ORNITHINE DOES NOT EFFECT ON THE LIVER AT ALL (unless we are talking about hepatic coma, there is one nuance, but it is not about us).
LIV-52 was a very popular drug at one time. The jocks of the 90s ate this Indian hepatoprotector by the handful, believing in its effectiveness. Unfortunately, this is not just a useless drug. In some situations, it can also worsen the condition of the liver. I don’t know how it is in the Russian Federation, but in most Western countries (in the USA, for example), Liv-52 has long been banned for sale after the publication of a number of official expert opinions. CONCLUSION: LIV-52 DOES NOT WORK!
CONCLUSIONS:
- CARSIL and LEGALON (based on plant-based SILYMARIN) = WORK (protect and restore the liver)
- HEPTRAL = WORKS INTO THE VEIN ONLY (TABLETS DO NOT WORK). Protection and recovery.
- FLAMIN = WORKS BY NORMALIZING BILE (GOOD ON THE COURSE)
- ,ESSENTIALE, ORNITINE (HEPA-MERZ), LIV-52, etc. = DO NOT WORK
- ON THE COURSE: CORSIL/LEGALON (METABOLISM, CELLS) + FLAMIN (BILE)
- ON PCT: CORSIL/LEGALON
CHOLESTEROL LEVELS RESTORING CHOLESTEROL VALUES (HDL to LDL) HIGH density lipoproteins to LOW density lipoproteins (“good” to “bad” cholesterol). HEALTHY RATE for LDL to HDL = 3:1 to 8:1 . HOW TO FIND OUT? TEST FOR CHOLESTEROL. If it becomes BAD at 9....10....11, etc. TIMES MORE THAN “GOOD”, it means you NEED TO INCREASE GOOD (return the proportion to acceptable limits for health) WAYS OF NORMALIZATION: OMEGA-POLYUNSATURATED FATTY ACIDS (OMEGA-3) AND FIBER to food . Eat fatty varieties of FISH (tuna, mackerel), NUTS (walnuts, pistachios, etc.), use OLIVE OIL and LINSEED OIL (do not fry, but add to prepared foods). If you are too lazy to change your diet, then BE SURE to buy FISH OIL IN CAPSULES and consume it 1-4 GR/DAY!!!
HELL (BLOOD PRESSURE) ON THE COURSE Normal blood pressure should be below 140/90 mm Hg. Art . However, steroids retain sodium in the body and increase blood volume (androgens such as testosterone do this especially strongly). Increased pressure leads to both HEART disease and KIDNEY disease (therefore, if you have kidney problems, I would first pay attention to normalizing blood pressure). WHAT TO DO IF THE PRESSURE IS TOO HIGH? ENALAPRIL = 5 MG/DAY or METOPROLOL = 50 MG/DAY will help . Usually these doses are sufficient, BUT they can be increased if it does not help. It is permissible to use ONLY if the pressure has risen (in fact, and not prophylactically).
REDUCING CORTISOL LOWERING CORTISOL AND NOT LOSE MORE MUSCLE THAN NATURE REQUIRES is one of the main goals during PCT. First of all, you need to reduce stress and the amount of physical activity (more on this a little later). However, there is also a place for PHARMACOLOGY THAT FIGHTS CORTISOL . WHAT IS THIS PHARMACY?
- CLENBUTEROL 40-100 mcg/DAY
- GLUTAMINE = 10-20 GY/DAY
- INSULIN = INDIVIDUAL (usually a short injection every day before meals)
- GROWTH HORMONE = 10 UNITS / THREE DAYS A WEEK (Mon. Wed. Fri.)
Not everyone will be able or willing to use insulin and Growth Hormone. Clenbuterol and Glutamine are easier to administer (MAPLE is better, but more dangerous. GLUTAMINE is safe, but works less well). IT IS MUCH MORE IMPORTANT not to eat pharmaceuticals, but to TRAIN CORRECTLY after you leave the COURSE. If it's over, your goal is to lose as little muscle as possible.
ASTEROIDS: TRAINING AFTER THE COURSE
So, on the PCT our task comes down to two things.
- Restore your natural hormonal levels as quickly as possible
- Reduce the catabolic impact of external factors (training) to the necessary level.
We've dealt with the first one. With the second one only at the farm level. Now we are talking about the EXTERNAL FACTORS themselves (training). GENERAL RULE: AFTER THE COURSE, THE LOAD AND INTENSITY OF TRAINING SHOULD BE SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED! This should be done immediately after the STEROIDS have stopped working in your body. Your training capabilities WILL NOT GO IMMEDIATELY because our body is characterized by INERTIA and you may want to continue to work as hard as during the course. YOU CAN'T DO THIS!!!! Strength and performance may not immediately collapse, BUT your recovery (internal) CAPABILITIES WILL INSTANTLY DECREASE . Thus, if you continue to maintain a HIGH LOAD (usual during the course), THEN you will STIMULATE MUSCLE CATABOLism GREATLY. It won’t be weak anyway due to the withdrawal of stimulants. And with hard training you double it.
RULES FOR TRAINING ON PCT:
- REDUCE TRAINING VOLUME: i.e. TRAINING SHOULD BE MORE RARE . If before you trained 5 TIMES/WEEK, then after the COURSE you need to train MAXIMUM THREE TIMES/WEEK. Or even up to TWO TIMES/WEEK. But that is not all. THE DURATION OF THE TRAINING SHOULD BE REDUCED BY 1.5-2 TIMES!!! Those. If earlier the training duration was 60 minutes, now it should be 45 minutes, or even better, 30 MINUTES!!!
- LOWER THE INTENSITY OF TRAINING: This means INCREASE THE REST TIME BETWEEN SETS and LOWER THE WORKING WEIGHT on the apparatus. Increasing rest time is more important than reducing working weights. Rest time is usually increased to 2-3 minutes between sets (until complete recovery). I advise you to reduce the WORKING WEIGHT by carefully listening to your ligaments and joints. Without chemistry they became weaker, on the other hand, the more weight, the more training you will retain for the next course. Most often it makes sense to reduce weight by 10-20%
- REMOVE AEROBIC ACTIVITY from your routine. Any additional physical activity will cause harm through additional catabolism. If you want, you can walk at a walk, BUT not run.
- REDUCE STRESS AND GET A LOT OF SLEEP . The reason is still the same - you need to reduce cortisol.
AT THE PCT STAGE THE GOAL: NOT TO LOSE MORE THAN NATURE REQUIRES . Be prepared to lose a lot and don't be nervous. I can reassure you : YOUR STEROID MAXIMUM IS STORED IN “MUSCLE MEMORY”, so GET IT BACK IN THE NEXT COURSE WILL BE FASTER THAN EARLIER. In principle, the whole point of the monstrously great achievements of modern CHAMPIONS comes down to the fact that, with the help of PHARMA, they PUSH THE THRESHOLD OF THE MAXIMUM SET A LITTLE FURTHER EACH TIME! After the COURSE they are blown away, BUT on the next COURSE they quickly reach this THRESHOLD and CROSS IT FURTHER before being blown away again. This is a gradual shift in the maximum.
Source: Denis Borisov
