Clomiphene

Clomiphene (also known as clomifene) is the active ingredient of Clomid, Fertomid and ClomiHexal.

General Information

Clomiphene is a fertility medication prescribed to stimulate ovulation (the release of an egg from an ovary during the menstrual cycle) in women who ovulate infrequently, or are not ovulating at all.

Prior to treatment a semen analysis should be performed to rule out male-infertility.

Multiple pregnancies (a pregnancy where there are two or more foetuses developing in the uterus at the same time) occur frequently in women treated with clomiphene. To rule out the possibility of twins, your doctor should monitor you closely.

How does clomiphene work?

After taking clomiphene a release of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone is triggered. These hormones are important for the development and maturation of the ovarian follicle.

Fast facts

Drug schedule: Schedule 4

Available as: Clomiphene is available as tablets.

What does it do? Clomiphene stimulates ovulation.

Overdose risk: Low

Dependence risk: Low

Is clomiphene available as a generic? Yes

Is clomiphene available on prescription only? Yes

User information

Stopping this medicine: This drug should not be stopped before the prescribed course has been completed. Stopping the drug will reduce chances of conception.

Prolonged use: Short courses are generally prescribed. Long-term use may impair vision - regular eye-tests are advised.

Special precautions

Consult your doctor before using this drug if:

• You have liver disease
• You are taking other medication.

Pregnancy: Avoid. Potential risk to the foetus has been reported. Consult your doctor before use, or if you are planning to fall pregnant.

Breastfeeding: Avoid. It is unknown how this medication may affect your baby. Consult your doctor before use.

Porphyria: This medication is safe to use.

Infants and children: This medication is not intended for use in children.

Elderly: This medication is not intended for use in the elderly.

Driving and hazardous work: Caution is advised as use of this medication may lead to blurred vision. Avoid such activities until you know how it affects you.

Alcohol: Avoid concomitant use of alcohol with this medication

Possible side effects

Interactions:

Drug interactions:

No interactions are listed.

Overdose action

A small overdose is no cause for concern. In case of intentional large overdose, seek emergency medical attention.

Recommended dosage

Adult: 50 mg once a day for 5 fays, starting on day 3-5 of the menstrual cycle or after induced bleeding. If ovulation fails, the dose may be increased to 100 mg (as a single dose) for 5 days.

Interesting fact

Clomiphene is often used by male anabolic steroid users to block the effects of oestrogen in their body, including symptoms such as female-like breast development.