Clomid

Composition

Each tablet contains:

• Clomiphene Citrate – 50 mg
• Excipients – q.s.

Pharmacological Effects

Clomifene citrate is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that works by:

Stimulating Ovulation

• Blocks estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, increasing FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone) secretion from the pituitary gland.
• Promotes follicle growth in the ovaries, leading to ovulation.

Hormonal Regulation

• Indirectly enhances estrogen production by the developing ovarian follicles.
• Helps restore normal menstrual cycles in women with anovulation.

Effects in Men (Off-label Use)

• May increase testosterone and sperm production by stimulating pituitary gonadotropins (FSH/LH).

Note: Clomid does not directly contain hormones but influences the body’s natural hormone balance.

Indications

Ovulation Induction in Anovulatory Infertility

• Used to stimulate follicle development and ovulation in women with anovulatory disorders (e.g., polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)).
• Recommended for women with normal estrogen levels and intact hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis.

Assessment of Ovarian Function

• May be used as a diagnostic tool to evaluate ovarian reserve and hypothalamic-pituitary responsiveness.

Male Infertility (Off-label in some cases)

• Occasionally used to treat oligospermia (low sperm count) in men, though this is not a licensed indication in all regions.

Recommended Dose

• Dosage: Typically starts at 50mg daily for 5 days, but 25mg may be used in sensitive patients (e.g., those at risk of overstimulation).
• Duration: Limited to 6 cycles due to increased risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) or long-term ovarian cancer concerns.

Side Effects

Common (≥1 in 10 users):

• Hot flushes
• Abdominal discomfort or bloating
• Nausea or breast tenderness
• Headaches or dizziness

Less Common (≥1 in 100 users):

• Visual disturbances (blurred vision, light sensitivity) – stop treatment and consult a doctor.
• Mood swings or pelvic pain (may indicate ovarian hyperstimulation).

Rare but Serious:

• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) (severe abdominal pain, swelling, nausea).
• Multiple pregnancies (twins/triplets – higher risk with fertility treatments).

Contraindications

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

• May cause severe pelvic pain, nausea, rapid weight gain, or difficulty breathing (seek immediate medical help).
• Higher risk in women with PCOS or high follicle counts.

Multiple Pregnancy Risk

• Increases chances of twins or triplets, raising pregnancy complications.

Visual Disturbances

• Stop use if blurred vision, flashes, or floaters occur (may indicate retinal damage).

Storage Conditions

• Store below 25°C (or as specified by the manufacturer; some may recommend below 30°C).
• Protect from light and moisture – keep tablets in their original blister pack or container until use.
• Keep the container tightly closed to prevent exposure to air and humidity.
• Do not refrigerate or freeze unless specified by the manufacturer.
• Store in a dry place – avoid bathrooms or damp areas.

Disclaimer: Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice regarding storage and use, especially when dealing with compounds that have limited clinical data.