PCT Protocol for Common Steroid Cycles: Matched Plans

One Size Does Not Fit All in PCT

PCT is not a single, fixed protocol applied universally. The optimal recovery plan depends on which compounds were used, how long the cycle ran, the degree of suppression experienced, and whether HCG was used during or immediately after the cycle. This guide provides specific, matched PCT protocols for the most commonly run steroid cycles.

Protocol 1: Beginner Testosterone Cycle (10–12 Weeks)

Cycle: Testosterone Enanthate 400 mg/week × 12 weeks
Suppression level: Moderate
Wait after last injection: 14 days

PCT Protocol:

• Week 1–2: Nolvadex 40 mg/day
• Week 3–4: Nolvadex 20 mg/day

This is the foundational PCT protocol. Clean, effective, minimal side effects. Bloodwork at 6 weeks post-PCT to confirm recovery. Most healthy males in their 20s–30s will recover within 8–12 weeks total.

Protocol 2: Testosterone + Oral Kickstart

Cycle: Testosterone Enanthate 500 mg/week × 12 weeks + Dianabol 40 mg/day × weeks 1–5
Suppression level: Moderate-High (Dianabol adds suppressive load early)
Wait after last injection: 14 days (Dianabol has already cleared by cycle end)

PCT Protocol:

• Week 1–2: Nolvadex 40 mg/day
• Week 3–6: Nolvadex 20 mg/day

Extended to 6 weeks due to heavier cumulative suppression from the oral kickstart.

Protocol 3: Testosterone + Nandrolone (Deca) Cycle

Cycle: Testosterone Enanthate 500 mg/week + Nandrolone Decanoate 300 mg/week × 16 weeks
Suppression level: High (nandrolone is among the most suppressive compounds)
Wait after last injection: 21–28 days (Deca’s decanoate ester requires extended clearance)

PCT Protocol:

• Bridge (weeks 1–3 post-cycle): HCG 500 IU 3×/week while waiting for clearance
• Week 4–5 post-cycle (PCT start): Nolvadex 40 mg/day + Clomid 50 mg/day
• Week 6–7: Nolvadex 40 mg/day + Clomid 25 mg/day
• Week 8: Nolvadex 20 mg/day

Cabergoline (0.25 mg 2×/week) may be used if prolactin remains elevated post-cycle. Full HCG guidance at HCG in PCT.

Protocol 4: Oral-Only Cycle

Cycle: Anavar 50 mg/day × 8 weeks (or Winstrol / Turinabol)
Suppression level: Mild-Moderate
Wait: 24–48 hours after last tablet

PCT Protocol:

• Week 1–2: Nolvadex 20–40 mg/day
• Week 3–4: Nolvadex 20 mg/day

Oral-only cycles with mild compounds like Anavar generally allow a lighter PCT. However, Anadrol oral cycles may warrant the combined Nolvadex + Clomid approach due to heavier suppression.

Protocol 5: Advanced Multi-Compound Cycle (Including Trenbolone)

Cycle: Testosterone Enanthate 600 mg/week + Trenbolone Enanthate 400 mg/week + Masteron 400 mg/week × 16 weeks
Suppression level: Very High
Wait: 14 days (all enanthate esters)

PCT Protocol:

• Bridge days 1–14: HCG 500 IU EOD
• Week 3–4: Nolvadex 40 mg/day + Clomid 50 mg/day
• Week 5–6: Nolvadex 40 mg/day + Clomid 25 mg/day
• Week 7–8: Nolvadex 20 mg/day

Prolactin monitoring is important post-Trenbolone. Cabergoline on standby. Bloodwork at 8 weeks post-PCT essential.

Protocol 6: Short Ester Cycle (Testosterone Propionate / Trenbolone Acetate)

Cycle: Testosterone Propionate 100 mg EOD + Trenbolone Acetate 75 mg EOD × 8 weeks
Suppression level: Very High (Trenbolone)
Wait: 3 days after last injection (propionate and acetate esters clear rapidly)

PCT Protocol:

• Day 4–17: Nolvadex 40 mg/day + Clomid 50 mg/day
• Day 18–31: Nolvadex 20 mg/day + Clomid 25 mg/day

Short-ester cycles allow PCT to begin almost immediately, significantly shortening the total recovery timeline. A key advantage of propionate/acetate-based cycles for users who prioritise quick recovery.

General Post-PCT Protocol

Regardless of cycle type, after completing your primary PCT protocol:

• Continue natural testosterone support supplements (ashwagandha, vitamin D, zinc) for 8+ weeks
• Maintain training and nutrition to preserve gains
• Blood test 6 weeks after last SERM dose
• If not recovered at 12 weeks post-PCT, consult an endocrinologist or TRT-specialist physician

For drug selection guidance, see Nolvadex vs Clomid. For timing by compound, see When to Start PCT. Full overview at PCT Complete Guide.

📚 Related Pillar Guides: Testosterone Complete Guide • Winstrol Complete Guide • Trenbolone Complete Guide