Clomiphene Citrate

Generic Details

Generic Name

Clomiphene Citrate

Other Names

  • Clomid
  • Serophene

Drug Class

  • Selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM)

Chemical Formula

C26H28ClNO

Molecular Weight

405.96 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Clomiphene citrate is a nonsteroidal ovulatory stimulant. It acts by enhancing the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, which in turn stimulates the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland. This leads to ovarian follicle maturation, ovulation, and subsequent development of the corpus luteum.

Indications

  • Treatment of ovulatory dysfunction in women desiring pregnancy
  • Stimulation of ovulation in anovulatory women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Off-label use in men for treatment of hypogonadism and improvement of spermatogenesis

Common Dosage Forms

  • Tablet

Typical Dosage

  • 50 mg once daily for 5 days, starting on the fifth day of the menstrual cycle

Pediatric Dosage

    Geriatric Dosage

      Side Effects

      • Hot flashes
      • Abdominal discomfort
      • Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
      • Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets)
      • Visual disturbances
      • Mood swings

      Contraindications

      • Pregnancy
      • Liver disease
      • Abnormal uterine bleeding
      • Ovarian cysts or enlargement

      Pregnancy Category

      • Category X - Contraindicated in pregnancy

      Lactation Safety

      • Limited data available; caution advised

      Drug Interactions

      • May potentiate the effects of other drugs that induce ovulation or hyperstimulate the ovaries such as gonadotropins

      Overdose Symptoms

      • Nausea
      • Vomiting
      • Blurred vision
      • Abdominal pain

      Antidote for Overdose

        Storage Conditions

        • Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

        Pharmacokinetics

        • Absorption: Rapidly absorbed following oral administration
        • Distribution: Distributed mainly in the systemic circulation
        • Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites
        • Excretion: Excreted primarily in the feces and urine

        Precautions

        • Monitoring of ovarian function and ultrasound may be required during treatment
        • Discontinue use if signs of ovarian hyperstimulation occur

        Warnings

        • Prolonged use may increase the risk of certain ovarian tumors

        Others