Generic Clomiphene

Common use
Clomiphene is a non-steroidal fertility medication used to induce ovulation in women who are anovulatory or have irregular ovulation. It is often prescribed for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or unexplained infertility. The drug works by stimulating the release of hormones needed to trigger ovulation. It may also be used off-label to boost testosterone levels in men with secondary hypogonadism.

Dosage and direction
Clomiphene is usually taken orally once daily for five consecutive days early in the menstrual cycle, typically starting on day 3, 4, or 5. The standard initial dose is 50 mg per day, which may be increased in subsequent cycles if ovulation does not occur. Treatment should be supervised by a physician and not exceed six cycles in total. Timing of intercourse or intrauterine insemination is typically coordinated during the ovulatory window.

Precautions
Before using clomiphene, patients should be evaluated for potential causes of infertility and undergo pelvic examination. Caution is advised in patients with liver dysfunction, ovarian cysts unrelated to polycystic ovaries, or abnormal uterine bleeding. The drug may cause visual disturbances or dizziness, so care should be taken when driving or operating machinery. Multiple births may occur due to stimulation of more than one follicle.

Contraindications
Clomiphene is contraindicated in individuals with liver disease, uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal dysfunction, or ovarian enlargement of unknown cause. It should not be used during pregnancy or in patients with hormone-dependent tumors. The medication is also not suitable for individuals with hypersensitivity to clomiphene or any of its components. Use in the presence of an ovarian cyst not related to PCOS may increase the risk of rupture.

Possible side effect
Common side effects include hot flashes, abdominal discomfort, bloating, and breast tenderness. Some patients may experience nausea, headache, or mood swings. Rare but serious side effects include visual disturbances, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), or ovarian enlargement. Medical attention should be sought if severe pelvic pain or visual symptoms occur.

Drug interaction
There are few known serious interactions with clomiphene, but it may alter the effects of hormone-based therapies. Concurrent use with other fertility drugs should only be done under medical supervision. Inform your doctor of all medications and supplements, especially those that influence hormonal balance. Alcohol may intensify side effects like dizziness or headache.

Missed dose
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is near the time of the next dose. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one. Missing a dose during the ovulation window may reduce the chance of conception in that cycle. Consult your physician if more than one dose is missed.

Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, hot flashes, visual disturbances, and abdominal pain. Severe cases may involve ovarian enlargement or overstimulation. Medical attention is necessary if overdose is suspected. There is no specific antidote, and treatment is supportive.

Storage
Store clomiphene at room temperature, away from light, heat, and moisture. Keep the medication in its original packaging and out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiration date. Follow local pharmaceutical disposal guidelines for unused or expired medication.

Disclaimer
We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.

Clinical Verification

Last Clinically Updated: August 15, 2026

Written By

Dr. Elena Vance, PharmD

Clinical Specialist in Neuropharmacology

Fact Checked By

Marcus Thorne, MS

Biomedical Data & FDA Label Verification

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Arthur Campbell, MD

Board-Certified Psychiatrist (ABPN)