Exploring the Benefits of Enclomiphene Citrate for Bodybuilding
Enclomiphene for Testosterone: What the Research Shows
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Enclomiphene citrate is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that has been studied for its effects on testosterone levels in men. It is not FDA-approved for any indication — the FDA issued a Complete Response Letter for the branded version (Androxal), and it did not receive market approval. Some healthcare providers prescribe enclomiphene through compounding pharmacies on an off-label basis. This article summarizes published clinical research on enclomiphene and its observed effects on testosterone and body composition.
How Enclomiphene Works
Enclomiphene is the trans-isomer of clomiphene citrate. It works by blocking estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, which signals the pituitary gland to increase production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These hormones in turn stimulate endogenous testosterone production in the testes (Rodriguez et al. 2016).
Unlike exogenous testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), which suppresses LH and FSH through negative feedback, enclomiphene stimulates the body's own production pathways. This distinction is one reason it has been studied as an alternative approach for men with secondary hypogonadism. The oral compound has an approximately 24-hour half-life (Wiehle et al. 2013).
What Clinical Research Shows
Published studies have examined enclomiphene's effects on testosterone levels at various doses:
| Study | Participants | Dose | Observed Mean Change in Total Testosterone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wiehle et al. 2013 | 44 men (6 weeks) | 6.25 mg | +154 ng/dL vs. baseline |
| 12.5 mg | +312 ng/dL vs. baseline | ||
| 25 mg | +360 ng/dL vs. baseline | ||
| Rodriguez et al. 2016 | 273 men (26 weeks) | 12.5 mg (titrated) | Maintained T ≥ 550 ng/dL without reducing sperm counts |
Wiehle et al. 2013 measured 24-hour testosterone profiles; the values above reflect mean morning totals at Day 42 versus Day 1.
These studies were conducted in men with secondary hypogonadism (low testosterone with intact testicular function). Results in other populations may differ. Dose-response data suggest diminishing returns at higher doses, with the 25 mg group showing only modestly higher testosterone than the 12.5 mg group.
A notable finding from Rodriguez et al. 2016 is that sperm counts were maintained during enclomiphene treatment, unlike with exogenous testosterone, which typically suppresses spermatogenesis.
Why Enclomiphene Is Discussed in Fitness Contexts
Higher testosterone levels are associated with increased muscle protein synthesis, improved recovery, and favorable changes in body composition. Because enclomiphene raises endogenous testosterone without exogenous hormone administration, it has attracted interest in fitness and bodybuilding communities.
It is important to note:
Enclomiphene is not FDA-approved. It was not approved when submitted to the FDA as Androxal. Current access is through compounding pharmacies, which are not subject to the same regulatory oversight as FDA-approved medications.
Enclomiphene is banned by WADA under the SERM classification. Tested athletes should be aware that use constitutes a doping violation.
Long-term safety data are limited. Published trials have examined durations of 6–26 weeks. The long-term effects of extended use are not well characterized in the literature.
Side Effects Reported in Clinical Studies
Common (generally mild):
- Headache
- Mood changes or irritability
- Mild GI discomfort
Less common (reported with monitoring):
- Visual disturbances (blurred vision, halos). Direct enclomiphene data are limited, but these effects are documented with clomiphene citrate—which contains enclomiphene as its active isomer—so clinicians monitor for them as a precaution (Racette 2010).
- Elevated estradiol, which may be associated with water retention
Any visual changes should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately. For more details, see Exploring the Side Effects of Enclomiphene Citrate.
Enclomiphene vs. Clomiphene vs. TRT
Enclomiphene is sometimes discussed alongside other approaches to testosterone management. The following comparison reflects published clinical data:
| Enclomiphene | Clomiphene (Clomid) | Exogenous TRT | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Blocks estrogen at hypothalamus; stimulates endogenous T | Same mechanism but includes zuclomiphene isomer (associated with more estrogenic side effects) | Replaces endogenous production with exogenous hormone |
| Fertility impact | Sperm counts maintained in studies | Sperm counts generally maintained | Typically suppresses spermatogenesis |
| FDA status | Not approved | Approved for female ovulation induction; off-label for men | Multiple FDA-approved formulations for male hypogonadism |
| Route | Oral (daily) | Oral (daily or every other day) | Injection, gel, patch, or pellet |
All treatment decisions should be made with a qualified healthcare provider based on individual clinical evaluation, lab work, and medical history.
For more on clomiphene, see Clomid for Men: Benefits and Dosage Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is enclomiphene FDA-approved?
No. The FDA issued a Complete Response Letter for the branded version (Androxal), and it is not FDA-approved for any indication. Some providers prescribe it through compounding pharmacies on an off-label basis.
Can enclomiphene replace TRT?
Some healthcare providers use enclomiphene as an alternative to TRT in men with secondary hypogonadism, particularly when fertility preservation is a priority. Whether it is appropriate depends on individual clinical factors. This is a decision to make with a qualified provider.
How is enclomiphene different from clomiphene (Clomid)?
Clomiphene citrate contains two isomers: enclomiphene (trans) and zuclomiphene (cis). Zuclomiphene has estrogenic activity and a longer half-life, which may contribute to some of the side effects associated with clomiphene. Enclomiphene is the isolated anti-estrogenic isomer.
Is enclomiphene legal for competitive athletes?
Enclomiphene is banned by WADA under the SERM classification. Tested athletes should not use it.
The BodySpec Take
Enclomiphene is a non-FDA-approved SERM that has shown testosterone-raising effects in published clinical studies. Because it is not FDA-approved and long-term data are limited, all decisions about enclomiphene should be made with a qualified healthcare provider who can evaluate individual medical needs and monitor appropriately.
Regardless of what approach you and your healthcare provider choose, objective body composition data can help you understand what's changing over time. A DEXA scan measures fat mass, lean mass, visceral fat, and bone density—providing context that a scale alone cannot.
Book a BodySpec DEXA scan to track changes in lean mass, fat mass, and visceral fat.
Educational content only; not medical or legal advice. BodySpec does not diagnose, treat, prescribe, or sell medications.
