- What is clomiphene-oral, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
- What brand names are available for clomiphene-oral?
- Is clomiphene-oral available as a generic drug?
- Do I need a prescription for clomiphene-oral?
- What are the side effects of clomiphene-oral?
- What is the dosage for clomiphene-oral?
- Which drugs or supplements interact with clomiphene-oral?
- Is clomiphene-oral safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
- What else should I know about clomiphene-oral?
What is clomiphene-oral, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Clomiphene is an oral medication used for stimulating ovulation. It binds to estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, ovary, endometrium, vagina, and cervix. It causes production of hormones (gonadotropins) by the pituitary which stimulates ovulation. The FDA approved clomiphene in February 1967.
What are the side effects of clomiphene-oral?
The most common side effects of clomiphene are:
- ovarian enlargement,
- flushing,
- stomach discomfort,
- breast discomfort,
- blurred vision,
- nausea, and
- vomiting.
Other important side effects include
- abnormal heart beats,
- acne,
- allergic reactions,
- headaches,
- uterine bleeding,
- back pain, and
- muscle pain.
Quick GuideInfertility: Types, Treatments, and Costs
What is the dosage for clomiphene-oral?
The recommended dose is 50 to 100 mg orally for 5 days. The initial dose is 50 mg which may be increased to 100 mg if there is no response. Dosage may be repeated as early as 30 days after the previous treatment.
Which drugs or supplements interact with clomiphene-oral?
: No drug interactions are listed in the prescribing information.
Is clomiphene-oral safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Clomiphene should not be taken by pregnant women since it does not offer any benefit to pregnant women.
NURSING MOTHERS: It is not known whether clomiphene is excreted into breast milk. It may reduce lactation in some women.
What else should I know about clomiphene-oral?
What preparations of clomiphene-oral are available?
Tablets: 50 mg
How should I keep clomiphene-oral stored?
Tablets should be stored at room temperature, 15 C to 30 C (59 F to 86 F).
REFERENCE: FDA Prescribing Information
Quick GuideInfertility: Types, Treatments, and Costs
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Complete List
Infertility
Infertility is the diminished ability to conceive a child. Infertility can be a problem with both men and women. Infertility in men can be caused by medical conditions, unhealthy habits, and toxins from the environment. Infertility in women can be caused by problems with ovarian function, the Fallopian tubes, or the physical characteristics of the uterus. Methods of conceiving for couples that cannot conceive include intrauterine inseminations (IUIs) or in vitro fertilization (IVF), specific drugs, assisted reproductive technology (ART), surgery, and gestational carrier.
Infertility Quiz
What is the medical definition of infertility? Take the Infertility Quiz to learn the risks and treatment of infertility. Our answers may surprise you!
Infertility Treatment
Learn about infertility symptoms and types of treatment such as IVF, acupuncture, and natural methods to get pregnant. Read about infertility in men and women as well as treatment costs and success rates.
Polycystic Ovary
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), also known by the name Stein-Leventhal syndrome, is a hormonal problem that causes women to have a variety of symptoms including irregular or no menstrual periods, acne, obesity, and excess hair growth. Treatment of PCOS depends partially on the woman's stage of life and the symptoms of PCOS.
Pregnancy
Signs and symptoms of pregnancy vary by stage (trimester). The earliest pregnancy symptom is typically a missed period, but others include
breast swelling and tenderness,
- nausea and sometimes vomiting,
- fatigue, and
- bloating.
Second trimester symptoms include
- backache,
- weight gain,
- itching, and
- possible stretch marks.
Third trimester symptoms are
- additional weight gain,
- heartburn,
- hemorrhoids,
- swelling of the ankles,
- fingers, and face,
- breast tenderness, and
- trouble sleeping.
Eating a healthy diet, getting a moderate amount of exercise, also are recommended for a healthy pregnancy. Information about the week by week growth of your baby in the womb are provided.
Pregnancy Drug Dangers
Taking prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs or supplements should be discussed with your doctor. There are some medications that have been found to cause no problems in pregnancy, however, medications such as Accutane for acne, should never be taken during pregnancy.
Trying to Conceive
Trying to get conceive, or become pregnant can be challenging, frustrating, and an emotional rollercoaster for some couples. A couple can chart their progress, which may ultimately lead to a successful healthy pregnancy, or, when necessary, lead to discussions with a fertility specialist. If you're a woman, be aware of your menstrual cycle, and you can track when you are fertile during the month using the:
- Basal body temperature method
- Calendar method
- Ovulation method (cervical mucus)
About 10% of women in the US have problems getting pregnant, or carrying a pregnancy full term. Both men and women can have fertility problems. In fact, men and women each contribute about 1/3 when it comes to fertility problems. The other 1/3 are caused by a mixture of problems with both men and women or other problems that aren't identifiable.
