Serophene (Clomiphene)

What is Serophene?

Clomid is an oral drug which helps to treat infertility in women. This non steroidal ovulatory stimulant is not recommended for women whose ovaries do not make eggs properly (have ovarian failure).

What is Serophene used for?

Clomid is used to combat hormone deficiency in an ovary which produces a follicle but fails to release an egg and thereby help in ovulation. However it is not meant for women whose ovaries fail to produce eggs properly due to primary pituitary or ovarian failure.

How does Serophene work?

Clomid (Clomiphene) triggers a series of endocrine events which result in a pre-ovulatory gonadotropin surge and eventually lead to follicular rupture. In response to a course of Clomid there occurs an increase in the release of pituitary gonadotropins. This starts off steroidogenesis and folliculogenesis which in turn helps in the growth of ovarian follicle and also brings about an increase in circulatory estradiol. Once ovulation happens, there is again a rise and fall in progesterone and estradiol levels, similar to that in a normal ovulatory cycle.

How to use Serophene

Clomid should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. Talk to your pharmacist or nurse to clarify the instructions, if need be.

Clomid is usually taken orally with a glass full of water. The drug is usually prescribed in 5 day cycles. Long term treatment with this drug is not desirable and it is generally not prescribed for more than 6 cycles.

Along with the medication you may also be instructed to have ovulation tests, record your body temperature and have properly timed sexual intercourse to get best results.

Serophene warnings and precautions

Clomid is not administered to women who might already be pregnant or have any of the following conditions: endometriosis or endometrial carcinoma, uterine fibroids, endocrine disorder, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, ovarian cysts or ovarian enlargement (but not due to polycystic ovarian syndrome), liver disease or other chronic illness.

Clomid may cause blurred vision or other vision problems temporarily. Hence avoid activities which require clear vision during this period.

The drug increases the chances of multiple births. It should be kept in mind that multiple births expose both the mother and the fetuses to certain risks.

Clomid can cause serious birth defects to a fetus. Pregnant women are strictly prohibited from taking Clomid. The drug also passes through breast milk. Therefore, lactating mothers are advised to discuss the possible risks and benefits of taking the drug with their doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Serophene dose?

If you have missed a Clomid dose, contact your doctor for further advice.

What do I do if I have taken a Serophene overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Clomid, seek medical attention immediately.

Serophene interactions

No drug is known to interact with Clomid. However, it is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicines that you are taking, before using Clomid.

You should not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Serophene side effects

Side effects from Clomid include allergic reactions such as swelling of tongue, face, throat, hives, redness of skin etc. Seek emergency medical attention on appearance of such symptoms. The drug often causes ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). This life-threatening syndrome has symptoms such as weight gain, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, swelling of hands and legs, abdominal swelling and pain. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice these symptoms.

Abdominal or pelvic pain, swelling, tenderness due to ovarian enlargement, blurred vision, other visual changes, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness or discomfort, abnormal uterine bleeding, headache are some other side effects of Clomid.