Clomid
Clomid is an oral selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) used to treat female infertility and other medical conditions as determined by a doctor. Clomid is formulated as a white, round 50mg tablet.
Drug Uses
Clomid is available by prescription only. The active ingredient in Clomid is clomiphene citrate which stimulates hormones to enable ovulation to occur, thereby increasing a woman’s chances of becoming pregnant.
Women who are not pregnant, who do not have ovarian cysts and women who do not have liver problems may use Clomid. Clomid may be used by women with polycystic ovary syndrome under strict directions by a doctor.
Dosage
Always use Clomid exactly as directed by a doctor. After a course of Clomid has been completed, ovulation should occur between 5-10 days, during which time sexual intercourse should take place.
Treatment with Clomid starts with a dose of one 50mg tablet taken daily for five days. This dosage may only be increased if the ovulation has not occurred after the dose of 50mg. Women who are sensitive to follicle stimulating hormones, and women with polycystic ovary syndrome, should be prescribed a lower dose of Clomid and be regularly checked by a doctor.
If ovulation does not occur after a course of Clomid, a second course of 100mg (2x50mg tablets) per day for five days may given. The second course may start 30 days after the previous course. Doses of more than 100mg a day for five days is not recommended.
If ovulation has not occurred after six courses of Clomid, or if pregnancy has not resulted, treatment with Clomid should discontinue. Prolonged use of Clomid may cause ovarian cancer.
Missed Dose
If a dose is missed, it can be taken as soon as you remember, as long as it does not clash with the next scheduled dose. In this case, rather skip the missed dose. Never take a double dose. If you miss more than one dose, contact your doctor.
Precautions
Women who are pregnant, or women who have ovarian cysts, and women who have liver problems should not use Clomid.
Clomid may cause multiple births. Some cases of birth defects have been reported after treatment with Clomid.
Before using Clomid your doctor will need to test that your estrogen levels are normal, and that your liver is healthy. A full pelvic examination will be performed before each course of Clomid and your doctor will need to check that you are not pregnant, that you do not have ovarian enlargement and that you are free of cysts.
Side-effects
Side-effects are rare and generally occur with high doses and long-term treatment of Clomid. Side-effects can include hot flashes, enlargement of the ovaries and stomach discomfort. If these or any other uncomfortable symptoms persist contact your doctor.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, call for emergency assistance immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include vomiting, nausea, hot flashes, vision problems, pelvic pain, abdominal pain, or enlargement of the ovaries.
Storage
Clomid should be kept in a cool, dry place away from sun and moisture.