Enclomiphene vs Nolvadex vs Clomid: PCT Showdown for Enhanced Lifters (2025 Guide)

Whether you’re running SARMs, peptides, or full-blown AAS, post-cycle therapy (PCT) isn’t optional—it’s mandatory. But not all SERMs (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators) are created equal. In 2025, three options dominate the conversation: Enclomiphene, Nolvadex (Tamoxifen), and Clomid (Clomiphene).

This guide breaks down the science, real-world use, and recovery metrics behind each so you can make the most informed choice possible.

🧪 Why PCT Still Matters in 2025

Coming off any suppressive compound drops your natural testosterone levels. LH (Luteinizing Hormone) and FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) flatline, and estrogen can rebound hard.

A good SERM bridges the hormonal gap—kickstarting your HPTA (hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis) while managing estrogenic rebound.

🔬 Meet the Players

Compound Primary Action Estrogen Blockade LH/FSH Boost Mood Side Effects Notable Traits
Enclomiphene ER antagonist (isomer-specific) Moderate Strong Minimal Cleanest recovery; fast onset
Nolvadex ER modulator Strong Moderate Mild Standard for decades
Clomid ER modulator (dual isomer) Strong Strong Moderate to High Causes mood swings in many

Pro Tip: Clomid = 50% enclomiphene + 50% zuclomiphene (long-acting estrogenic isomer that causes side effects).

🏋️ Enclomiphene Citrate

Why it works: Isolated from Clomid, enclomiphene stimulates LH/FSH without estrogenic interference.

  • Dose: 12.5mg–25mg/day (taper as needed)

  • Cycle Length: 3–4 weeks

  • Strengths: Clean HPTA rebound, minimal mood issues, no visual sides

  • Stack Notes: Ideal after SARMs, mild cycles, or TRT exits

“Enclo feels clean. Like my test bounces back without the mental fog.”

🕵️️ Nolvadex (Tamoxifen)

Why it works: Competes with estrogen at receptor sites; boosts LH indirectly.

  • Dose: 20–40mg/day

  • Cycle Length: 4–6 weeks

  • Strengths: Widely studied, reduces gyno risk, well-tolerated

  • Stack Notes: Great for moderate cycles, AAS users, or when AI wasn’t used

“Nolva saved me from rebound gyno. No complaints.”

🪩 Clomid (Clomiphene Citrate)

Why it works: Triggers LH/FSH hard but includes both estrogenic and anti-estrogenic isomers

  • Dose: 25–50mg/day

  • Cycle Length: 4 weeks

  • Strengths: Potent stimulation, long track record

  • Side Effects: Mood swings, vision blurriness, estrogenic symptoms from zuclomiphene

  • Stack Notes: Only recommended when LH is totally flatlined

“Clomid gets numbers up. But it wrecked my mood. Wouldn’t use it again unless I had to.”

📊 Recovery Timeline Comparison (Days 1–21)

Day Enclomiphene Dose Nolvadex Dose Clomid Dose Expected Effects
1–7 25mg/day 40mg/day 50mg/day LH/FSH spike, libido begins rebound
8–14 12.5mg/day 20mg/day 25mg/day Test levels begin stabilizing
15–21 12.5mg EOD 20mg EOD Stop or 25mg EOD Mood normalization, estrogen balance

Note: Always adjust based on bloodwork. These are general frameworks, not medical advice.

⚖️ Summary: Best Uses by Compound

Scenario Best Option
PCT after SARMs Enclomiphene
PCT after anabolic steroids Nolvadex + Enclo combo
Severe suppression (TRT shutdown) Clomid (short-term only)
Estrogen rebound or gyno flare Nolvadex
Mood-sensitive users Enclomiphene

🔗 Related Tools & Guides

🔄 Final Thoughts

Enclomiphene is the most targeted and side-effect-free SERM in 2025. It works fast, doesn’t wreck your head, and gets you back online without the emotional seesaw of Clomid.

Nolvadex remains a solid choice when estrogen is your enemy. Clomid? Reserve it for the big recoveries when you’re coming off heavy suppression and can handle the rollercoaster.

Train hard, recover smarter.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a qualified health professional before using any pharmaceutical compound.