How Long After RAD 140 Should You Start PCT?

You just sabotaged your RAD 140 cycle. Gains are progressing well, confidence levels are at all-time highs, and you’re gym royalty. But wait—before you begin another cycle or hang up your towel, there’s one thing you simply can’t escape: Post Cycle Therapy (PCT).

Now, when do you start your PCT after RAD 140? That’s a question for the ages. You’ll mess it up and lose all those precious gains and throw a wrench in your hormones if you get it wrong. And trust me, you don’t want that.

In this article, we’re going to walk you through all that you want to know about how and when to start PCT after RAD 140, why you need to be doing it, and how to do it for the first time. So sit back and relax, because messing up this part of your cycle can have you running around feeling lethargic, losing muscle, and experiencing all sorts of unwanted side effects. Let’s not let that happen!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical or legal advice.

So You Took RAD 140… Now What?

Alright, champ, let’s talk RAD 140 (a.k.a. Testolone)—the so-called “King of SARMs” that everyone and their gym bro is raving about. If you’ve dabbled in RAD 140, chances are you were chasing muscle gains, insane strength, and that Greek-god vascularity—and let’s be real, it delivers. But here’s the kicker: your natural testosterone might have taken a hit in the process. (Source 1)

Why You Can’t Skip PCT (Unless You Enjoy Feeling Like a Deflated Balloon)

Let me be straight with you—skipping post-cycle therapy (PCT) after RAD 140 is like finishing a brutal leg day and deciding you don’t need protein after. You’re setting yourself up for low energy, muscle loss, and a hormonal rollercoaster you definitely didn’t buy a ticket for.

I’ve seen it firsthand. One of my clients, let’s call him Big Mike, ran a 12-week RAD 140 cycle, felt like Superman, then skipped PCT because “SARMs don’t shut you down that bad.” Two months later? He’s sitting across from me, tired, moody, and wondering why his once-massive lifts feel like warm-up weights. Lesson learned: PCT isn’t optional.

What This Article Covers (Because You’re Smart and Want to Do This Right)

In this guide, we’re breaking down:

• How long after RAD 140 to start PCT—timing is everything, my friend.
• Signs your testosterone is crying for help—and what to do about it.
• The best PCT options (because Nolvadex vs. Clomid is basically the SARMs version of Marvel vs. DC).
• What happens if you skip PCT—spoiler: it’s not pretty.

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to recover like a pro, keep your hard-earned gains, and avoid the dreaded crash. Let’s get into it.

Does RAD 140 Require PCT?

Short answer? Probably. Long answer? Keep reading, my friend.

Some gym bros swear up and down that RAD 140 “barely suppresses testosterone” and that PCT is for steroid users, not SARMs users. But let me hit you with some cold, hard science (and a reality check).

Understanding RAD 140 Suppression

How RAD 140 Affects Testosterone Levels

RAD 140 may not be a full-blown anabolic steroid, but your body doesn’t know that. It binds to androgen receptors like a pro, mimicking testosterone and telling your body, “Hey, we’ve got enough of this stuff—no need to make more!”

The result? Your natural testosterone production slows down or even shuts off completely. And when your cycle ends, your body suddenly realizes it’s got no backup supply. Cue the hormonal nosedive. (Trusted Source 2)

I’ve been there. Ran an 8-week RAD 140 cycle, felt like the Hulk, then crashed like a Windows 95 PC. No energy, no motivation, lifts tanked—learned the hard way that PCT isn’t optional.

Difference Between RAD 140 and Anabolic Steroids

So, is RAD 140 as suppressive as testosterone or Tren? Nope. But does that mean you can skip PCT? Also nope.

Here’s the key difference:

• 💥 Anabolic Steroids = Completely override natural testosterone production, leading to near-total shutdown.
• 💪 RAD 140 = Milder suppression, but still enough to cause issues post-cycle—especially at higher doses or longer cycles. (Source 3)

Think of it this way: Steroids are like setting your house on fire. RAD 140 is like leaving the stove on overnight. One is obviously worse, but both can still wreck your home (a.k.a. your hormones).

Signs You Need PCT After RAD 140

So, how do you know if your testosterone is crying for help after RAD 140? Look out for these classic symptoms:

Symptoms of Testosterone Suppression

• 🚨 Fatigue & Weakness – Your energy levels drop faster than your squat PR.
• 🔥 Low Libido – Suddenly, your Netflix nights are just Netflix.
• 😡 Mood Swings & Irritability – One minute you’re fine, the next you’re mad at your protein shaker.
• 💪 Loss of Gains – Without testosterone, keeping muscle is like trying to hold onto water.

(Source 4)

I had a client, let’s call him “Shredded Steve”, who thought he didn’t need PCT after RAD 140. Three weeks later, he was tired, moody, and struggling to hit weights he used to warm up with. We got him on a proper PCT, and boom—back to beast mode.

Factors That Determine If You Need PCT

Not everyone experiences the same suppression. Your need for PCT depends on:

• Dosage – Higher doses (20mg+) = More suppression.
• Cycle Length – The longer you run RAD 140, the more your natural T takes a hit.
• Stacking – If you’re mixing RAD 140 with other SARMs, suppression can be much worse.
• Individual Response – Some guys bounce back fast, others crash hard (genetics, baby!).

The only real way to know? Bloodwork. Get your testosterone, LH, and FSH levels checked post-cycle—don’t just guess and hope for the best.

Final Word: Do You Need PCT?

If you ran RAD 140 for longer than 4 weeks, at a moderate to high dose (10mg+), or stacked it with anything else—YES, you need PCT.

If you ran a very short, low-dose cycle (4 weeks at 5mg) and feel zero suppression symptoms, you might recover naturally—but why gamble with your hormones?

Moral of the story: If in doubt, run PCT and protect your gains.

How Long to Start PCT After RAD 140?

Alright, listen up, champs! You’ve just wrapped up a RAD 140 cycle, and now you’re wondering, “When should I start my PCT?” Well, let me hit you with the truth: Timing is everything.

It’s like showing up at the gym on leg day—show up too early, you’re stuck waiting for the squat rack. Show up too late, and someone else has already claimed it. Same with your PCT (Post Cycle Therapy). Start it too soon, and you could end up hurting your gains. Wait too long, and your body’s natural testosterone could take a nosedive, leaving you feeling like a deflated balloon.

Best PCT Timing for RAD 140 Users

So, when is the sweet spot for starting your PCT after finishing your RAD 140 cycle? Here’s the deal: Most folks recommend starting your PCT around 1 to 2 weeks after you’ve completed your RAD 140 cycle. Why? Because RAD 140 is powerful, and your body needs time to recover from the suppression it caused. If you start your PCT too soon, you could mess with your body’s natural recovery process. If you wait too long? Well, you’re risking your gains, and trust me, you don’t want that. (Source 5)

Now, I’m not just talking out of my protein-shake-filled mouth here. I’ve worked with clients who have ignored the timing and jumped into PCT too early, or “waited for the stars to align” and delayed their start. Both options? Big mistakes. One client, let’s call him “Brad,” waited too long and ended up with some pretty unpleasant side effects. Trust me, you don’t want to go there.

Factors That Affect RAD 140 PCT Timing

Alright, so the timing isn’t just a one-size-fits-all deal. There are a couple of factors that will determine exactly when you should jump into your PCT.

1. Cycle Length & Dosage
   If you’ve been running a short cycle (e.g., 6 weeks) of RAD 140 at a lower dose, you can likely begin PCT a little earlier than someone who’s been running higher doses for longer periods. Why? Since the longer you cycle, the more suppressed your testosterone may be, and the longer your body will take to recover. It’s the same as building muscle—slow and steady is best.
2. Stacking with Other SARMs
   If you’ve cycled RAD 140 with other SARMs, like Ostarine or Ligandrol, your body will take a bit longer to recover. Why? Because your hormones are probably more suppressed than if you’re just running RAD 140 by itself. So, if you’ve cycled it out, give it a bit longer before you start that PCT.
3. Individual Hormone Response
   This is where it gets a little more personal. You know how every gym bro responds differently to squats? Same goes for SARMs. Some people will recover faster, while others might need more help from PCT. Blood tests are your best friend here. If you’re not sure where your testosterone is sitting after the cycle, go get those tests done. It’s like checking the weight on your barbell before you go for that max lift—you gotta know where you stand before you push forward.

So, my advice? Don’t rush it. Time your PCT based on your cycle, the dosages you’ve used, and most importantly—your own body’s needs. It’s like trying to finish a marathon. You can’t rush to the finish line without risking injury, and you definitely don’t want to drag your feet when there’s a medal (aka, your gains) waiting for you at the end.

Best PCT Protocol After RAD 140

Alright, let’s talk about the golden ticket to getting your hormones back on track after a RAD 140 cycle—Post Cycle Therapy, aka PCT. If you’ve been blasting RAD 140 like a true beast, then PCT is like your recovery phase after maxing out on squats.

You want to get your body back in balance, prevent those dreaded side effects, and keep the gains you’ve worked so hard for. So, what’s the best protocol? Let me break it down for you, my fellow gym warriors.

Recommended PCT Medications

First things first—Nolvadex vs. Clomid. These are the two main contenders in the PCT ring. But which one’s the champ for RAD 140?

• Nolvadex (Tamoxifen): This one’s the classic choice. It blocks estrogen at the receptor site, which means it helps your body restore its natural testosterone production without letting estrogen wreak havoc. If you’re someone who’s been running higher doses or stacking SARMs, Nolvadex can be your go-to. I’ve seen clients get solid results from this, though it might take a little longer to kick in.
• Clomid (Clomiphene): Think of Clomid as the “supercharger” to your testosterone production. It makes your pituitary gland release more natural testosterone, which is valuable after a heavy cycle. Individuals like it because it gets the job done, but if you tend to have mood swings or you’re estrogen-sensitive, it can be a bit temperamental. But for my more advanced clients who’ve really blown it on their cycle, Clomid gets the job done.

But here’s the thing—Natural recovery vs. SERMs (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators). While some of you might be leaning towards “natural recovery” (you know, eating clean, training hard, and just waiting it out), let’s be real—RAD 140 can suppress your natural test production, and sometimes you need a little more than just a solid diet and rest.

SERMs like Nolvadex and Clomid will give your body the extra push it needs to restart testosterone production without waiting for the slow grind of natural recovery alone.

PCT Duration & Dosage

Now, let’s talk duration and dosage. How long should you run your PCT? And how much of that Nolvadex or Clomid should you be taking?

• 4-week vs. 6-week PCT Protocol: If you were running a shorter cycle (let’s say 6-8 weeks), a 4-week PCT protocol might be enough. But if you’ve been on a longer or more intense RAD 140 cycle (12 weeks or more), it’s probably best to extend your PCT to 6 weeks. I’ve had clients in both camps—some cruise through with a shorter protocol, while others need a bit more time to recover and get those testosterone levels back to normal. Listen to your body and adjust accordingly.
• Dosage Directions Based on Cycle Severity: If you hardcore’d your cycle by upping doses, expect to need higher dosages of your PCT meds. With Nolvadex, you will most likely start with 40mg/day during the first two weeks and decrease to 20mg/day for the last two weeks. Clomid can start at 50mg/day during the first two weeks, tapering off to 25mg/day after that. But, seriously, don’t go off these numbers blindly—blood tests will be your best friend to taper doses if needed.

Natural Supplements for Faster Recovery

So, you’re doing the PCT thing, but you’re also trying to make that recovery a little faster, right? I got you covered. Here’s where natural supplements come into play, and no, it’s not just about protein shakes and creatine.

• Testosterone Boosters: Things like D-Aspartic Acid (DAA), Zinc, and Ashwagandha can give your body that extra push in getting your testosterone levels back up. DAA is one of my personal faves—it’s like a little spark for your body’s natural test production. Zinc helps keep testosterone levels steady, and Ashwagandha? It’s great for reducing cortisol, so you’re not dealing with stress while trying to bring those T-levels back up.
• Lifestyle Factors: Don’t underestimate the power of sleep, diet, and training adjustments. You can’t just pop pills and expect magic. Sleep is where the magic happens—get those 7-9 hours, or your body won’t have the chance to repair and grow. As for your diet, make sure you’re getting enough healthy fats and protein to support hormone health. Training-wise, this might be the time to scale back a bit and let your body recover—no need to be hitting PRs while your body’s still adjusting.

Look, PCT isn’t the most glamorous part of your cycle, but trust me—it’s the difference between keeping your gains and losing all that hard work. Do it right, stay disciplined, and you’ll be back to crushing it in no time!

What Happens If You Skip PCT After RAD 140?

All right, folks, let’s go over the don’t-do—you know, skip your PCT after a cycle of RAD 140. Yeah, I hear you. You might be saying, “Aha, I feel fine. No PCT for me, I’ll survive.” Trust me, this is a huge blunder.

If you don’t do PCT, your body could end up in a hormonal mess. And I don’t mean the occasional little mood swing. I mean some serious long-term damage that could take months (or even years) to fix. Let’s break it down. (Source 6)

Effects of Not Doing PCT After RAD 140

Skipping PCT is like trying to bench without warming up. Sure, you might get away with it once or twice, but eventually, your muscles will scream at you. At the close of a RAD 140 cycle, the natural production of testosterone in your body has been suppressed. Without restarting that function with PCT, you’re leaving your body to fend for itself. And believe me, it won’t be pretty.

You might begin observing some giveaway indicators such as:

• Low Energy: RAD 140 gave you a nice kick when you were on cycle, but without PCT, you may feel like you’re walking through life in a perpetual haze. Your energy can drop, and it’s hard to make it to the gym, or even make it through the day.
• Loss of Gains: Your body will not be able to retain the muscle you’ve worked so hard for without PCT. That’s right—your gains can vanish faster than a protein shake left in the sun. Low testosterone can make your muscles harder to recover, meaning you’ll be left with weaker gains.
• Libido Problems: This is where things get serious. If you don’t recover your natural testosterone, your libido can really suffer. Low testosterone can make you less than interested in the romance department. And we’re not talking about a few embarrassing moments—it’s like being in a dry spell that drags on for months.
• Mood Swings and Irritability: Missing PCT can lead to a hormonal imbalance, and with that comes the emotional rollercoaster ride. You will find yourself snapping at people for no reason, depressed for no apparent reason, or just plain out of sorts. That’s your hormones objecting.

Long-Term Effects of Low Testosterone and Hormonal Imbalance

I’d like you to think about the long term now. If you don’t do PCT, you’re not just suffering from some temporary discomfort. You’re putting yourself in the path of some serious, long-term issues.

• Chronic Low Testosterone: If your body stays in a suppressed state for a long period of time, you may find yourself stuck with low testosterone levels. And I mean seriously low—like, painfully low. Chronic low testosterone can hamper muscle growth to the health of your bones. You don’t want to have bony bones or struggle to gain muscle when you’re 40.
• Hormonal Balance: Ongoing hormonal imbalance between testosterone and estrogen can wreak havoc with a whole lot of things more than your mood. It may lead to an augmented risk for ailments like gynecomastia (man boobs), nobody’s cup of tea. Additionally, it is tougher to maintain your leanness and healthiness, leading to the storage of excess fat, especially around your stomach.
• Mental Struggles: Low testosterone is not just bad for your body—low testosterone is bad for your brain as well. Research shows that low testosterone is associated with increased rates of anxiety, depression, and motivational issues. Without proper PCT, you might be fighting a mental battle you weren’t prepared for.

Listen, I’ve seen a few too many guys skip PCT and regret it. Sure, the “I’ll be fine” mindset might seem tempting in the moment, but in the long run, skipping PCT is like skipping leg day—it catches up with you. Don’t make the same mistake. Keep your body in check, start your PCT on time, and get back to feeling like your best self. Trust me, your future self will thank you.

FAQs About RAD 140 PCT Timing & Protocol

Alright, now that we’re bringing the heat, let’s cover some of the most asked questions I get about RAD 140 and PCT. These are the deal-breaker questions that will make or break if you’re going to recover correctly after your cycle. So let’s cut the B.S. and get you back playing!

Can You Recover Naturally Without PCT?

Ahh, the age-old question. “Can’t I just go without the PCT and just let my body recover naturally?” Ah, let me tell you: Yes, your body can attempt to recover naturally from a RAD 140 cycle, but it’s like trying to apply a band-aid to an open wound yourself—you can do it, but it ain’t gonna be pretty. RAD 140 actually lowers your own natural testosterone, and without PCT, your body is gonna have a hard time catching up.”.

You may also experience decreased energy levels, loss of muscle mass, and other undesirable side effects.

Listen, I’ve had some clients who tried the “natural recovery” route and had a slow recovery. Honestly, it’s like not doing warm-ups on deadlifts—your body’s just not ready for the stress. PCT is your insurance policy, so you don’t end up feeling like a deflated balloon with no juice and jacked-up hormones. So, do me a favor? Don’t skip it. Your gains—and sanity—will thank you.

What Blood Tests to Take Following the Cycle?

Oh, blood tests—your dirty little secret. You have no idea where your hormones are without them. If you’re serious about your recovery, blood tests are an absolute necessity. They’ll inform you of the true picture of how your body is healing. Here’s what to test for:

• Total Testosterone: No-brainer. You need to test where your testosterone stands after your cycle. If you’re low, you know you need to get PCT rolling.
• Estradiol (Estrogen): RAD 140 could affect the levels of estrogen, so you need to get this tested so that you don’t have too much estrogen on your hands. If it’s unbalanced, PCT will balance it out.
• LH (Luteinizing Hormone) and FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): These two are a major role in getting your body to transition to natural testosterone production. If they’re low, it can be an indicator that your body’s having a little bit of difficulty in triggering the recovery process. Your PCT regimen can help with getting those levels up to par.
• Free Testosterone: This is the testosterone that’s actually doing something in your body. If you’re running low on total test, but free test is fine, you might not have to freak out, but it’s still a good idea to check.

These tests will give you what you need in order to know that you’re starting your PCT when you should and fine-tuning your protocol if you need to.

Can You Start Another Cycle Immediately After PCT?

Aw, come on, come on, I know you eager beavers can’t wait to climb onto your next cycle. Wait a minute though a second, starting another cycle that soon after PCT? No way, coach.

And that’s why: PCT is to restore your natural hormone levels after a cycle. If you start another cycle before it’s time, you’re basically skipping the recovery phase and stressing your body out all over again. It’s like going to the gym and trying to deadlift max weights after a week of rest—your muscles won’t have recovered yet, and you’ll only end up injuring yourself.

Typically, it is wise to wait a minimum of 3 months following a PCT before resuming another cycle. This provides your body with the sufficient amount of time that it needs in order to recharge and reboot.

Jumping too quickly into another cycle will cause long-term issues with hormone imbalances, burnout, and extremely bad recovery issues. The key here? Patience. Your body will thank you in the long run, trust me. Prioritize recovery, simplify your lifestyle, and when you’re ready to start fresh, you’ll be healthier, stronger, and ready to kill it.

Conclusion

Alright, let’s take it home, fam! You’ve been grinding on the RAD 140, and now you need to close it out strong with the important PCT. So, how quickly after your RAD 140 cycle do you start your PCT? Simple answer: about 1 to 2 weeks after you finish your cycle. This gives your body the chance to wind down, so you’re not jumping into PCT too soon or waiting too long and risking that post-cycle slump.

Now, here’s the catch—proper recovery matters. You don’t want to look good for a couple of weeks, then end up looking like a deflated balloon at the end of your cycle, huh? If you don’t have a proper PCT, you’re going to lose all those gains that you worked so hard to get, and you might even destroy your health.

I’ve seen it happen myself, believe me. I’ve had clients who didn’t follow through on their recovery, and guess what? They were left feeling drained, seeing their muscle disappear and struggling with imbalances of hormones they didn’t need. It’s like going through a warm-up without doing the cool-down—you’re simply inviting injury.

So, here’s my personal advice to you: Listen to your body! It’s telling you everything that you need to know. If you don’t feel wonderful or are sensing something off (like fatigue or mood swings), don’t just power through. It’s like ignoring that tension in your shoulder when you’re about to make a massive lift—your body is trying to tell you something! And also, get the blood work.

Seriously. It’s like staring at your form in the mirror—you wouldn’t be curling heavy weights without making sure your form is solid, right? Same with your hormones. Get the blood work, adjust your PCT accordingly, and prepare yourself for success.

💡 So keep in mind: Right PCT = keeping your gains and feeling like a boss. Don’t leave it out. Your muscles, and your future self, will thank you. Now let’s get back to the gym and crush those goals!