Clomiphene is a non-steroidal fertility medicine. It causes the pituitary gland to release hormones needed to stimulate ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary).
Clomiphene is used to cause ovulation in women with certain medical conditions (such as polycystic ovary syndrome) that prevent naturally occurring ovulation.
Use clomiphene exactly as directed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Your doctor will perform medical tests to make sure you do not have conditions that would prevent you from safely using clomiphene.
Clomiphene is usually taken for 5 days, starting on the 5th day of your menstrual period. Follow your doctors instructions.
You will need to have a pelvic examination before each treatment cycle. You must remain under the care of a doctor while you are using this medicine.
You will most likely ovulate within 5 to 10 days after you take clomiphene. To improve your chance of becoming pregnant, you should have sexual intercourse while you are ovulating. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding timed intercourse.
Your doctor may have you use over-the-counter ovulation tests or check your temperature each morning and record your daily readings on a chart. This will help you determine when you can expect ovulation to occur.
In most cases, clomiphene should not be used for more than 3-6 treatment cycles (3 ovulatory cycles). If ovulation occurs but you do not get pregnant after 3 treatment cycles, your doctor may stop treatment and evaluate your infertility further.
Stomach upset, bloating, abdominal/pelvic fullness, flushing ("hot flashes"), breast tenderness, headache, or dizziness may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: abnormal vaginal bleeding, mental/mood changes.
Vision changes (e.g., blurred vision, seeing spots or flashes) may sometimes occur during clomiphene treatment, especially if you are exposed to bright light. These side effects usually go away a few days or weeks after treatment is stopped. However, in rare cases, vision changes may be permanent. Get medical help right away if any of the following occur: vision problems/changes, eye pain.
This medication may cause a condition known as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Rarely, serious OHSS causes fluid to suddenly build up in the stomach, chest, and heart area. This may occur during therapy or after treatment has been stopped. Get medical help right away if you develop any of the following side effects: severe pain/swelling in the lower abdomen (pelvic) area, sudden/rapid weight gain, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, shortness of breath, decreased urination, pain/redness/swelling of the legs, chest pain, fast/irregular heartbeat.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).
Other drugs may interact with clomiphene, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.
n case of overdose, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. Information is also available online at https://www.poisonhelp.org/help. If the victim has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or cant be awakened, immediately call emergency services at 911.