HomeWhat is Clomid?
Clomid is a brand name for clomifene citrate, a selective estrogen receptor modulator which inhibits negative feedback on the hypothalamus and thus forces increased production of gonadotropins. It is useful in helping women who do not ovulate to become pregnant. In clinical studies it has had a 30% success rate in women with ovulation problems. It has also been identified as being responsible for a statistically significant increase in the number of multiple births. Clomid has also been found effective in treating male hypogonadism and is under investigation as a replacement for traditional testosterone replacement therapy.
How does Clomid work?
Clomid is used for infertility intervention in cases where a woman’s ovaries can produce follicles but where the hormone balance is not conducive to the maturation of ova. Clomid inhibits the action of estrogen on the pituitary by binding to estrogen receptors. This disrupts the normal cycle of the receptors, effectively leading to a lower number of hypothalamic estrogen receptors. Because the body interprets the reduced feedback as a low level of free estrogen, it prompts an increase in pituitary gonadotropin. This causes the growth of more ovarian follicles and ovulation as a result of their subsequent rupture.
What does Clomid look like?
Clomid is sold as a round white pill with a strength of 50 mg. the pill is imprinted with “Clomid 50”.
Dosage and administration of Clomid
The normal dose for women beginning infertility treatment is 50 mg of Clomid in one daily dose for five days. It should be begun on the fifth day of the menstrual cycle (i.e. five days after the beginning of menstruation). This may be adjusted to a different time in specific cases. If ovulation does not occur at this level of dosage, it may be increased to 100 mg daily for five days in subsequent cycles. It is important to be sure that you are not pregnant before beginning a second or subsequent cycle. If conception has not occurred after three cycles of Clomid, the drug should be stopped pending new tests of hormonal levels. Doses above 100 mg are not recommended and nor is it advisable to take more than six cycles of Clomid. Less than one per cent of women may experience other side effects including vaginal dryness, vertigo, changes in weight, fatigue, hair loss or depression.
Possible adverse effects of Clomid
The most common side effects of Clomid are enlargement of the ovaries, hot flushes, pelvic bloating, nausea or vomiting, tender breasts, headache and abnormal menstrual bleeding. These side effects are not cause for undue concern, however you should contact your doctor immediately in the case of severe abdominal or pelvic pain, changes in vision, or any symptoms of an allergic reaction. Severe abdominal pain may indicate enlarged ovaries and the danger of rupture. If you experience such pains or nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, you should contact your doctor immediately.
Interactions with Clomid
At present there are no known interactions with Clomid.