Clomid, with the active ingredient clomiphene citrate, is a leading oral medication prescribed to treat infertility in women. It belongs to a class of drugs known as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) and is often the first-line treatment for anovulatory disorders. By stimulating the release of hormones necessary for ovulation, Clomid helps address one of the most common causes of female infertility. Its well-established efficacy, decades of clinical use, and oral administration make it a cornerstone of fertility therapy under expert medical supervision.

Features

• Active ingredient: Clomiphene Citrate 50 mg
• Administration: Oral tablet
• Standard packaging: 30 tablets per box
• Prescription-only medication
• Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical standards
• Non-hormonal mechanism of action

Benefits

• Effectively induces ovulation in women who do not produce eggs regularly.
• Increases the probability of achieving a successful pregnancy in anovulatory patients.
• Offers a non-invasive, oral alternative to more complex fertility treatments.
• Well-documented success rates with over 50 years of clinical use.
• Allows for precise cycle monitoring and timing optimization.
• Cost-effective compared to injectable gonadotropins.

Common use

Clomid is primarily indicated for the treatment of ovulatory dysfunction in women desiring pregnancy. Its use is most appropriate for patients diagnosed with conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or functional hypothalamic amenorrhea, where the absence of ovulation is the principal barrier to conception. It is critical that impairment of the partner’s fertility and other uterine or tubal factors be excluded or adequately treated before initiation of therapy. Clomid is not indicated for use in women with primary ovarian failure or uncontrolled thyroid/adrenal disorders.

Dosage and direction

Treatment should be initiated and monitored by a physician specializing in fertility. The recommended initial dose is 50 mg (one tablet) daily for 5 days, starting on the 5th day of the menstrual cycle (with day 1 being the first day of menstrual bleeding). If ovulation does not occur, the dose may be increased to 100 mg daily for 5 days in subsequent cycles. Dosing beyond 100 mg per day is not recommended. Therapy should be limited to a maximum of 3-6 cycles. The patient should be instructed to have intercourse daily around the expected time of ovulation, typically 5-10 days after the last dose. Ultrasound monitoring of follicular development is strongly advised.

Precautions

A thorough medical evaluation must be conducted prior to prescribing Clomid. Patients should be informed of the possibility of multiple births (which is increased with this drug). Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a rare but serious complication; symptoms include abdominal pain, distension, nausea, vomiting, and weight gain, and require immediate medical attention. Visual symptoms such as blurring or scotoma may occur and necessitate discontinuation. Long-term use (over 12 cycles) may be associated with an increased risk of borderline ovarian tumors. Use may also result in the growth of pre-existing uterine fibroids.

Contraindications

Clomid is contraindicated in patients with: pregnancy; undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding; ovarian cysts (not related to polycystic ovarian syndrome); uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal dysfunction; liver disease; organic intracranial lesions (such as a pituitary tumor); and known hypersensitivity to clomiphene citrate or any component of the formulation. It must not be administered simultaneously with other fertility drugs except under rigorous specialist supervision.

Possible side effect

Common side effects, which are often dose-dependent, include: vasomotor flushes (“hot flashes”); abdominal discomfort or bloating; breast tenderness; nausea and vomiting; headache; dizziness; visual disturbances (blurred vision, photophobia, diplopia); and abnormal uterine bleeding. These are typically mild and transient. Less common but more serious adverse effects include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), ovarian enlargement, and mood swings. Any severe or persistent side effects should be reported to a physician immediately.

Drug interaction

Concomitant use with other hormonal therapies, including gonadotropins, may increase the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation. Clomid may alter the metabolism of anticoagulants like warfarin, necessitating closer monitoring of coagulation parameters. It may also interfere with the efficacy of other medications metabolized by the cytochrome P450 system. Patients should provide their physician with a complete list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, before starting treatment.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped. Patients should never take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Adherence to the prescribed 5-day regimen is critical for the drug’s efficacy. Any deviation from the schedule should be discussed with the prescribing physician.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may be an exaggeration of known side effects, particularly severe nausea, vomiting, vasomotor flushes, and visual disturbances. Ovarian hyperstimulation is also a significant risk. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. In case of suspected overdose, immediate medical attention should be sought, and the patient should be taken to the nearest emergency department.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep the medication in its original blister pack until the moment of use. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. The use of Clomid must be prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional.

Reviews

“After struggling with irregular cycles due to PCOS, my specialist prescribed Clomid. With careful monitoring, we successfully conceived on the second cycle. The hot flashes were noticeable but manageable. The guidance and oversight from my doctor were invaluable.” – Sarah T., 32

“As a reproductive endocrinologist with over 20 years of experience, Clomid remains a fundamental tool in our arsenal. Its predictable response and oral administration provide an excellent first step for many appropriately selected patients. Patient education and cycle monitoring are non-negotiable for safety and success.” – Dr. Evan R., MD

“We followed the prescribed protocol precisely, including timing intercourse. The emotional rollercoaster was challenging, but the clear structure of the treatment helped. We are now expecting twins, and while that brings its own set of considerations, we are overjoyed.” – Mark and Jennifer L.

“The efficacy of clomiphene citrate is well-established in medical literature. It offers a high rate of ovulation induction and a good cumulative pregnancy rate for women with anovulatory infertility, making it a cornerstone of treatment before moving to more complex interventions.” – Clinical Study Summary, Fertility and Sterility