What is clomiphene, 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 brand names are available for clomiphene?
Serophene
Is clomiphene available as a generic drug?
Yes
Do I need a prescription for clomiphene?
Yes
What are the side effects of clomiphene?
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
SLIDESHOW
Infertility: Types, Treatments, and Costs See SlideshowWhat is the dosage for clomiphene?
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?
No drug interactions are listed in the prescribing information.
Is clomiphene 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.
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?
What preparations of clomiphene are available?
Tablets: 50 mg
How should I keep clomiphene stored?
Tablets should be stored at room temperature, 15 C to 30 C (59 F to 86 F).
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Summary
Clomiphene (Clomid) is a drug prescribed to stimulate ovulation in women with ovulatory dysfunction who are not pregnant, do not have abnormal bleeding or ovarian cysts, and have normal liver function. Side effects, drug interactions, and dosing information should be reviewed prior to taking this medication.
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Pregnancy and Drugs (Prescription and OTC)
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.
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Pregnancy (Week by Week, Trimesters)
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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.
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Getting Pregnant (Tips for 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.
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QUESTION
Men and women are equally likely to have fertility problems. See AnswerHealth Solutions From Our Sponsors
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.