Brand names Clomid, Serophene
Used in the following combined preparations None
GENERAL INFORMATION
Clomiphene increases the output of hormones by the pituitary gland, thereby stimulating ovulation (egg release) in women. If hormone levels in the blood fail to rise after the drug is taken, the gland is not working as it should.
For female infertility, tablets are taken for five consecutive days during each menstrual cycle. This stimulates ovulation. If clomiphene does not stimulate ovulation after several months, other drugs may be prescribed.
Multiple pregnancies (usually twins) occur more commonly in women treated with clomiphene than in those who have not been treated. Adverse effects include an increased risk of ovarian cysts. In rare cases, the ovaries become greatly enlarged, leading to abdominal pain and swelling.
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Tablets.
Frequency and timing of doses
Once daily for 5 days during each menstrual cycle.
Dosage range
50mg daily initially; dose may be increased up to 100mg daily.
Onset of effect
Ovulation occurs 4-10 days after the last dose in any cycle. However, ovulation may not occur for several months.
Duration of action
5 days.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Protect from light.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due at this time, take the missed dose and the next scheduled dose together.
Stopping the drug
Take as directed by your doctor. Stopping the drug will reduce the chances of conception.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to be a cause for concern.
But if you notice any unusual symptoms, or if a large overdose has been taken, notify your doctor.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
Most side effects are related to the dose taken. Ovarian enlargement and cyst formation can occur. If this happens the
problem usually resolves within a few weeks of stopping the drug.
INTERACTIONS
None.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Drug for infertility
Overdose danger rating Low
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic No
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have a long-term liver problem.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
Not prescribed. The drug is stopped as soon as pregnancy occurs.
Breast-feeding
Not prescribed.
Infants and children
Not prescribed.
Over 60
Not prescribed.
Driving and hazardous work
Avoid such activities until you have learned how clomiphene affects you because the drug can cause blurred vision.
Alcohol
Keep consumption low.
PROLONGED USE
Prolonged use of clomiphene may cause visual impairment. Also, more than 6 courses of treatment may lead to an increased risk of ovarian cancer.
Monitoring Eye tests may be recommended if symptoms of visual impairment are noticed. Monitoring of body temperature and blood or urine hormone levels is performed to detect signs of ovulation and pregnancy.
