As a non-steroidal fertility medication, clomiphene works to enable ovulation in women with a variety of conditions. It causes the pituitary gland to release hormones, allowing women with polycystic ovary syndrom to ovulate. In the following 3-minute article, we discuss the uses, side effects, dosage, warnings and interactions of this medication. We also answer the question
Uses Of Clomiphene
Clomiphene is used to induce ovulation in women who do not naturally produce eggs but wish to become pregnant. It works by stimulating estrogen, a female hormone that causes eggs to develop in the ovaries.
How Does Clomiphene Work?
Clomiphene triggers the brain's pituitary gland to release follicle stimulating hormones. It acts on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland in the brain, as well as the ovaries.
Clomiphene Side Effects
Like many prescription medications, clomiphene does come with a list of associated side effects. Some of these side effects may be more serious than others.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects of clomiphene include the following:
- Bloating
- Stomach cramps
- Breast tenderness
- Flushing
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
If these side effects are mild, they should disappear in a few days.
Serious Side Effects
Other side effects of clomiphene are more serious and may require medical attention. These include the following:
- Abnormal bleeding
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Seizures
- Blurred vision
- Ovarian enlargement
Disclaimer: Here at ManifestRX, our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. Unfortunately, because drugs affect each individual differently, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects.
How To Take Clomiphene
Take Clomiphene as directed by your doctor.
Clomiphene comes as a tablet to take by mouth. The medication is usually taken once a day for 5 days, beginning on or about day 5 of the cycle. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take clomiphene exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Clomiphene Dosage
Your dosage for clomiphene may vary depending on a variety of factors, including the following:
- Your age
- Your height
- Your weight
- The severity of your condition
Dosage For Ovulation
Adult: 50mg orally once a day for 5 days. If ovulation occurs and pregnancy is not achieved, up to 2 additional courses of clomiphene 50 mg orally once a day for 5 days may be administered.
Eclomiphene Vs. Clomiphene
Eclomiphene is a newer, similar medication that is being investigated to determine its use in hypogonadal men. Unlike clomiphene, it does not enable ovulation.
Clomiphene Warnings
In rare cases, clomiphene can cause serious medical warnings that require immediate attention. These may include the following:
Birth Defect Warning
Clomiphene may cause birth defects if it is taken after you become pregnant. Stop taking this medicine and tell your doctor immediately if you think you have become pregnant while still taking clomiphene.
Blurred Vision Warning
This medication may cause blurred vision, difficulty in reading, or other changes in vision. Clomiphene may also cause some people to become dizzy or lightheaded. Make sure to talk to your doctor if you plan to take clomiphene and continue to drive.
Clomiphene Summary
Clomiphene is an estrogen medication that comes as a generic drug and as the brand name drug Clomid. It is used to induce ovulation in women who can't become pregnant but wish to be able to.
