What is Clomiphene (Clomid)?

Clomid is a non-steroidal medication used in fertility treatments. It stimulates the pituitary gland to release hormones necessary for ovulation, the process of releasing an egg from the ovary.

This medication is prescribed to induce ovulation in women who have specific medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, that inhibit natural ovulation. Additionally, Clomid may be used for other purposes not listed in this guide.

Warnings

Do not use Clomid if you are pregnant.

Clomid should not be used if you have:

• Liver disease;
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding;
• An uncontrolled adrenal or thyroid disorder;
• An ovarian cyst not related to polycystic ovary syndrome;
• Pregnancy.

Before Taking This Medicine

Do not use Clomid if you are allergic to clomiphene citrate, or if you have:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding;
• An ovarian cyst unrelated to polycystic ovary syndrome;
• Past or present liver disease;
• A pituitary gland tumor;
• Untreated or uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal gland issues;
• Pregnancy.

Inform your doctor if you have:

• Endometriosis or uterine fibroids.

Clomid can pass into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. It might also reduce milk production. Discuss with your doctor if you are breastfeeding.

Using Clomid for more than 3 cycles might increase the risk of ovarian tumors. Consult your doctor about your specific risks.

Fertility treatments may raise the likelihood of multiple births, which pose higher risks for both the mother and babies. Address any concerns with your healthcare provider.

How Should I Take Clomid?

Use Clomid exactly as directed by your physician. Follow all instructions on your prescription label, and do not take more or less of the medication than recommended.

Typically, Clomid is taken for 5 days, starting on the 5th day of your menstrual cycle. Your doctor will guide you on the precise timing and dosage.

Undergo a pelvic examination before each treatment cycle and stay under your doctor’s care while using Clomid.

Ovulation generally occurs within 5 to 10 days after starting Clomid. For the best chance of pregnancy, engage in sexual intercourse during ovulation.

Your doctor might ask you to track your basal body temperature to predict ovulation timing. Most patients should not use Clomid for more than 3 treatment cycles. If ovulation occurs but pregnancy does not follow after 3 cycles, your doctor may reevaluate your infertility treatment.

Store Clomid at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.

What Happens If I Miss a Dose?

Contact your doctor for guidance if you miss a dose of Clomid.

What Happens If I Overdose?

In case of an overdose, seek emergency medical assistance or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What Should I Avoid?

Clomid may cause blurred vision. Use caution when performing tasks requiring clear vision and alertness.

Clomid Side Effects

Seek immediate medical help if you experience signs of an allergic reaction to Clomid, such as:

• Hives;
• Difficulty breathing;
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Some women may develop ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), especially after the first treatment. OHSS can be severe and requires immediate medical attention if symptoms such as:

• Stomach pain and bloating;
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;
• Rapid weight gain, particularly in the face and abdomen;
• Little or no urination;
• Pain when breathing, rapid heart rate, or shortness of breath (especially when lying down).

Discontinue Clomid and contact your doctor if you have:

• Pelvic pain or pressure;
• Vision problems, such as seeing flashes of light or "floaters";
• Increased sensitivity to light;
• Heavy vaginal bleeding.

Common side effects include:

• Flushing;
• Breast pain or tenderness;
• Headache;
• Breakthrough bleeding or spotting.

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects. For further medical advice, contact your healthcare provider. Report any side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Dosing Information

Typical Adult Dose for Ovulation Induction:

• 50 mg orally once daily for 5 days, starting around the 5th day of the menstrual cycle. If ovulation occurs but pregnancy does not ensue, up to 2 additional courses of 50 mg for 5 days may be given. Subsequent courses can be started as early as 30 days after the previous course.
• If ovulation does not occur after the initial course, a second course of 100 mg/day for 5 days may be administered. A third course may be given if necessary.
• Beyond three cycles, higher dosages, and extended durations are generally not recommended, though successful pregnancies have been reported with doses up to 200 mg/day.

Usual Adult Dose for Lactation Suppression:

• 50 to 100 mg orally once daily for 5 days, usually one course is sufficient.

Usual Adult Dose for Oligospermia:

• 25 to 100 mg orally once daily over several months.

What Other Drugs Will Affect Clomid?

Clomid may interact with other drugs, including prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform all your healthcare providers about the medications you are currently using or plan to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the uses and side effects of enclomiphene capsules?

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More About Clomid

• Check interactions
• Compare alternatives
• Pricing & coupons
• Reviews
• Drug images
• Side effects
• Dosage information
• During pregnancy
• Generic availability
• Drug class: synthetic ovulation stimulants
• Breastfeeding
• Patient resources
• Clomid patient information

Professional Resources

• Clomid prescribing information
• Clomiphene (AHFS Monograph)

Related Treatment Guides

• Ovulation Induction
• Oligospermia
• Female Infertility
• Lactation Suppression

Further Information

Keep all medications out of children's reach, never share your medicines, and use Clomid only as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure this information applies to your individual health circumstances.