Clomid (Clomiphene)

Description

Clomid is used to treat abnormal ovulation in women who want to become pregnant. It should only be used in women with the following criteria:

• not pregnant
• no ovarian cysts
• no abnormal vaginal bleeding
• normal liver function

Clomid comes in 50 mg tablets for oral use. 

Clomiphene citrate is the generic for Clomid.

Directions

Take Clomid as directed by your doctor. If you have any questions or concerns, tell your doctor or pharmacist.

Recommended dosing:

Patients generally start on a low Clomid dose such as 50 mg by mouth one time a day for five days. If the patient does not respond to the starting dose, the doctor may increase the dose.

Ingredients

Clomiphene citrate USP is the active ingredient in Clomid. Corn starch, lactose, magnesium stearate, pregelatinized cornstarch, and sucrose are the inactive ingredients.

Contraindications

Patients should not take Clomid if they have any of the following:

• are allergic to Clomid or to any of its ingredients
• are pregnant
• have liver disease or a history of liver problems
• have abnormal vaginal bleeding
• have ovarian cysts
• have uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal problems
• have an intracranial lesion such as a pituitary tumor

Cautions

• Before you start taking Clomid, tell your doctor about:
• All the medications you take
• Your allergies
• Your medical history and current health problems
• Your pregnancy or breastfeeding status
• Clomid may cause blurred vision or other vision problems such as spots or flashes.
• Clomid may cause Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS). Gross ovarian enlargement, gastrointestinal problems, swelling, shortness of breath, production of small amounts of urine, and buildup of fluid between the lungs and chest are signs of OHSS. Fluid around the heart, low blood pressure, kidney failure, fluid in the lungs and other parts of the body, bleeding in the peritoneal cavity, bleeding cyst, blood clots in the legs, twisting of the ovary around the tissues that hold it in place, and acute respiratory distress are symptoms of OHSS. Stomach pain and distension, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight gain are early warning signs of OHSS. Patients should seek emergency care right away if they experience any of these signs or symptoms.
• Women may be at an increased risk of multiple pregnancy, including bilateral tubal pregnancy or coexisting tubal and intrauterine pregnancy, when Clomid-associated conception occurs.
• Taking Clomid long-term may increase the risk of ovarian cancer.

Side Effects

Ovarian enlargement; hot flashes; abdominal or pelvic discomfort, distension, or bloating; nausea; vomiting; breast discomfort; vision problems; headache; and abnormal vaginal bleeding are common Clomid side effects; however, these are not the only side effects that can occur. If you develop bothersome or persistent side effects, let your doctor know right away.

Reference:

1. Clomid. Bridgewater, NJ: sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC; 2012.

About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)

Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....