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Ovulation Induction

Clomifene

Brand names: Clomid, Serophene

Clomifene citrate is an oral selective oestrogen receptor modulator used to induce ovulation in anovulatory subfertility.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

By blocking hypothalamic oestrogen receptors it disrupts negative feedback, increasing gonadotrophin-releasing hormone and pituitary FSH and LH output to stimulate follicular development.

Prescribing in practice

  • There is an increased risk of multiple pregnancy and of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, so use should be supervised with cycle monitoring.
  • Treatment is given for a limited number of cycles and prolonged or repeated courses are not recommended because of concern about ovarian effects.
  • Visual disturbances are a recognised effect and treatment should be stopped if they occur.

Monitoring

Monitor the ovarian response, ideally with ultrasound, to guide treatment and reduce the risk of multiple pregnancy and hyperstimulation.

Counselling the patient

  • Be aware of an increased chance of twins or higher-order pregnancy.
  • Stop the medicine and seek advice if you experience visual symptoms such as blurring or flashes.
  • Report severe abdominal pain or bloating, which may indicate ovarian overstimulation.

Evidence & guidelines

Clomifene is a long-established first-line ovulation-induction agent; treatment should follow specialist fertility guidance and the SPC.

Reference: ESHRE/ASRM PCOS Guidelines 2023; NICE Fertility NG156; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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