Clomiphene citrate, often known by its brand name Clomid, is a synthetic, non-steroidal ovulatory stimulant. It belongs to a class of drugs called selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). Primarily, it is used to induce ovulation in women who are anovulatory or oligo-ovulatory and desire pregnancy. In some cases, it is also used off-label in men for conditions such as secondary hypogonadism, though this use is not FDA-approved for clomiphene citrate itself but rather generally for SERMs with similar actions. (DrugBank, FDA label)
Clomiphene acts by blocking estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, which leads to an increase in the pulsatile secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). This, in turn, stimulates the pituitary gland to release more follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), essential hormones for follicular development and ovulation. (FDA label)
It is typically taken orally for a short duration during the menstrual cycle. The decision to use clomiphene citrate, along with the precise dosage and duration, must be determined by a qualified healthcare professional, after a thorough evaluation of the individual's medical history and current condition. (MedlinePlus)
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Known interactions
Category rule: supplement × medication
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Some supplements change how the body processes medications (absorption, liver enzymes, or additive effects).
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Category rule: vitamin × medication
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Certain vitamins interact with specific medications (e.g., vitamin K with blood thinners).
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Frequently asked
Sources referenced
["Cochrane", "DrugBank", "EMA SmPC (European Medicines Agency Summary of Product Characteristics)", "FDA label (U.S. Food and Drug Administration)", "Mayo Clinic", "MedlinePlus", "NIH ODS (National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements)", "PubChem"]
Stackwise compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician.
Related compounds
Others in the medication category or studied for the same goals.