Clomid or clomiphene is an oral medication used to stimulate ovulation and treat infertility in women. It works by blocking estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, stimulating it to produce FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone). The FSH and LH hormones stimulate the ovaries and prompt ovulation.
Uses of Clomid Tablets
Clomid tablets are used to treat female infertility problem. However, Clomid is not prescribed for women with ovarian failure (whose ovaries can’t produce eggs). The drug is especially helpful for women experiencing irregular menstrual cycle and unexplained infertility. Sometimes, doctors also prescribe Clomid for male infertility problems. If you are prescribed oral Clomid medication, you can buy it from RXShopMD or a similar online pharmacy.
Dosage: How to Use Clomid Tablets
Menstruating women should see their doctor and schedule an examination within 2-3 days of the first day of the period. Your doctor will prescribe the timing of your Clomid dosage after conducting a pelvic exam. Usually, you will be required to take up to three tablets a day on days 3 to 7 or 4 to 8 (total 5 days) of your menstrual cycle. Ovulation should occur 7 or 8 days after the 5-day treatment. Your doctor should monitor the ovulation during this period and advise you on the timing of intercourse. For this, you may be subjected to basal body temperature, ultrasound, LH kit, and blood tests. You should not use Clomid treatment for more than 6 cycles.
Clomid Side Effects
During Clomid treatment, some women may experience hot flashes, moodiness, and changes in sleep pattern. Many patients may not notice any symptoms at all. Other common side effects of clomiphene include the following:
- Stomach upset
- Bloating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal or pelvic fullness
- Diarrhea
- Rapid weight gain
- Irregular heartbeat and shortness of breath
- Disturbed urination
- Reversible hair thinning
- Tenderness of the breasts
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Vaginal bleeding
- Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS); which causes fluid buildup in the stomach or chest.
These symptoms may develop during or after the treatment. If any of these symptoms persist or get severe, you should consult your doctor immediately.
Sometimes, vision changes may occur (blurred vision, seeing spots, etc.), especially if you face bright light. Although this should go away in a few days after completion of the treatment, there may be permanent vision problems in some patients. You should see a doctor in such cases.
The chances of multiple births increase slightly with this treatment. On an average, 6 to 8 percent of women undergoing clomiphene treatment for fertility are likely to develop twins.
Precautions and Contraindications
Despite the fact that there is rarely any serious allergic reaction to this medication, you should tell your doctor your complete medical history and medications you are undergoing before starting Clomid treatment. Some of the active ingredients of the drug may cause reaction with other medications or may not be suitable in some specific health conditions. Especially, be sure to inform your doctor if you suffer from ovarian cyst, abnormal vaginal bleeding, uterus problems, liver disease, thyroid problems, or pituitary tumor.
- Do not use Clomid if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Avoid Clomid if you have large ovarian cysts.
- Don’t take this medication if you suffer from a liver disease.
Studies have been conducted to understand the risk of ovarian cancer associated with taking multiple cycles of clomiphene. No such risk has been established yet.
Avoid, or at least limit, alcohol and marijuana consumption while undergoing clomiphene treatment. If the medication makes you feel dizzy or causes vision changes, do not drive or do anything that requires alertness or clear vision.