Clomifene

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Clomid, Fertomid-50

Drug group:

Drug for infertility

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Clomifene is used to treat female infertility due to failure of ovulation.

How does it work?

Clomifene stimulates ovulation by increasing production of hormones by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.

How should it be used?

• Tablets should be taken within the first five days of each menstrual cycle
• Careful monitoring for ovulation and pregnancy are needed - body temperature, blood/urine hormone levels, and ultrasound scans can be used
• Your doctor may prescribe different drugs if there is still no ovulation within a few months

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Initially 50mg daily, may be increased up to 100mg daily
• Tablets should be taken once daily for 5 days from preferably day 2 of your menstrual cycle

How quickly will it start to work?

Ovulation occurs 11–12 days after the last dose (but this may only occur after several months of treatment)       
                      

How long will the effects last?

5 days

When should I stop using it?

Take as directed by your doctor
            

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No more than 6 courses of treatment are recommended as longer courses may lead to an increased risk of ovarian cancer. Long-term use of clomifene may also cause visual impairment – you may need an eye test if your vision is deteriorating.

What are the possible side effects?

Most side effects with clomifene are dose related.

The following have been reported:

• More common: hot flushes, breakthrough bleeding, nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort/bloating
• Less common: breast tenderness, dry skin, hair loss, rash, dizziness, weight gain
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: blurred vision, seizures, symptoms of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (limb swelling, shortness of breath, severe pain in the chest or abdomen)

Clomifene use is associated with an increased incidence of ectopic pregnancy and multiple pregnancies (usually twins).

Ovarian cysts may also form but this usually resolves within a few weeks of stopping the drug.

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver problems, uterine fibroids, abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Other medicines: No known interactions
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not prescribed
• Children: Not prescribed
• Over 60: Not prescribed
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause blurred vision
• Alcohol: Avoid large quantities