Many men have traditionally masculine features like a beard or deep voice, which result from a hormone called testosterone. Testosterone is produced in relatively significant quantities in the testes of males and smaller amounts in the kidneys of both sexes.

What about feminine features? Well, another hormone called estrogen plays that role. The ovaries of the female sex produce this in larger amounts than the testosterone made in the kidneys. Estrogen and testosterone are two of the most well-known hormones in the body, but many internal and external factors can influence their function. 

As people age, their bodies naturally produce less of these hormones. This can result in reduced sexual function, muscle loss, hair loss, and a variety of other symptoms, so people may turn to artificial hormone medications to supplement what has been lost and regain their youthful vitality and energy.

What is Enclomiphene?

Enclomiphene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator and a medication that primarily functions by blocking the brain’s awareness of the level of estrogen in the body. In plain terms, it plays a fast one on the brain. As a result, our brain wrongfully perceives a reduced amount of estrogen level in the body.

When presented with a lower-than-normal estrogen level, the brain feels compelled to fix it. It then responds appropriately through a series of events controlled by other hormones like luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

Enclomiphene and Testosterone

Enclomiphene has been studied for its potential benefits in raising testosterone levels in men without the negative effects on estrogen levels that are sometimes seen with clomiphene. Now that you know what enclomiphene does, the next question is “How does this action affect testosterone?” After enclomiphene has fooled the brain into believing that the body’s estrogen levels are drastically low, it initiates a feedback mechanism. 

At this point, the luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormones take up the baton. They then act on the testes to increase testosterone production. Estrogen is also produced, but our main focus here is on enclomiphene’s impact on testosterone.

Why Use Enclomiphene?

In the most basic terms, enclomiphene is used to increase testosterone levels. There are a number of reasons why a man may want to raise his testosterone levels, from battling with hair loss, low energy, decreased sexual activity, and more. Some men may also supplement their testosterone levels to help prevent or treat certain diseases and health issues. 

Male Hypogonadism

In male hypogonadism, the body is unable to provide the required amount of testosterone, which is necessary for normal male growth and development, particularly during and beyond puberty.

The signs of hypogonadism include:

• loss of secondary masculine features
• paleness
• muscle wasting
• decreased bone mass
• increased belly fat

Symptoms include:

• decreased sexual urge
• reduced pleasure from sexual activities
• difficulty achieving orgasms
• reduced energy
• reduced stamina
• irritability
• depression 

Male Infertility

Infertility is a global problem. Unfortunately, the male sex is typically the more affected population. Affected individuals are considered infertile if they are unable to have children with their partner over a period of at least one year, even after they’ve had multiple unprotected sexual encounters.

This condition is usually associated with multiple psychological conditions including:

• depression
• a feeling of inadequacy and failure
• loss 
• anxiety

Sometimes, male infertility is caused by low testosterone levels. In such cases, symptoms like a low sexual urge, tiredness, lack of interest in hobbies or activities, weight gain, and more may be observed.

Bodybuilding

More and more people are on the gym train these days. Some are trying to get fit, some are trying to lose weight, and others are seeking to sculpt their dream body. Since enclomiphene can help to build muscle mass and strength, some may seek it out to boost their health and fitness routines. While there are several medications gym-goers use, enclomiphene is a safer alternative than other options like steroids. 

Advantages of Enclomiphene over Traditional Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is one of the most popular medication options for older men–especially when it comes to matters concerning low testosterone levels. Unlike enclomiphene, these medications have a direct effect on testosterone levels. The routes of administration include injections, skin patches, gels, and more.

Although TRT is well-known and widely used, enclomiphene is a solid option for people who may not have success with it or would like an alternative. There are a few main benefits associated with this particular treatment plan.

Hormonal Balance

Enclomiphene stimulates the body’s in-house testosterone production factory to ensure that the testosterone level is under constant control. Therefore, a much more natural hormonal balance is maintained. TRT, on the other hand, may lead to hormonal imbalances. This makes it riskier and requires more oversight during administration.

Testicular Function

The testicular function is preserved during enclomiphene use. This is a benefit of its mechanism of action, which involves stimulating the testes to produce testosterone. However, a reduction in the size of the testes is a common side effect of TRT. This term is known as “disuse testicular atrophy.” It results from the suppression of testicular testosterone production and is due to high levels of external testosterone in TRT.

Estrogenic Side Effects

Enclomiphene actively suppresses estrogen activity in the body, so estrogenic side effects that typically occur during TRT are avoided. These side effects may include:

• enlargement of male breast size
• fat accumulation
• erectile dysfunction

Medication Adherence

Enclomiphene is administered orally to ensure medication adherence during treatment due to its ease of use. Traditional TRT is mostly administered via injections, requiring the use of a trained medical practitioner. This route of administration is also associated with potential infections.

Potential Side Effects and Drawbacks

After considering all the side effects that come with TRT, enclomiphene might sound like the perfect drug. Unfortunately, there is some potential for side effects, and it may not be an ideal solution for everyone. It’s vital to be aware of the risks before starting treatment so you know what to watch out for. 

Varying Predictability

The overall outcome of enclomiphene is significantly less predictable. It has been compared to alternative medications. People are different, and medications with indirect effects (like enclomiphene) are subject to the mercy of these differences. As a result, effectiveness varies amongst users.

Slow Onset of Action

Unlike alternatives that jump the queue, enclomiphene follows due process. Due process takes time, so you’ll need to be a bit patient before results become noticeable.

Side Effects

While enclomiphene has relatively few side effects–which are also minor compared to other alternative medications–there are still a few to be aware of. Some of the side effects include hot flashes, mood swings, nausea, and mild abdominal pain.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, you’ve gained a better understanding of enclomiphene, its impact on testosterone, and its various uses. However, this is not a license to attempt to self-prescribe this medication. Always seek the advice of qualified medical personnel before starting any medication. If you’d like to learn more about enclomiphene and whether or not it may be right for you, schedule an appointment with one of our doctors today.