Serophene (clomiphene citrate) is a first-line oral fertility medication specifically designed to stimulate ovulation in women experiencing anovulatory infertility. As a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), it works by blocking estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, prompting increased secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). This cascade effect stimulates the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), ultimately promoting follicular development and maturation. With decades of clinical use and extensive research supporting its efficacy, Serophene remains a cornerstone treatment in reproductive endocrinology for appropriately selected patients.

Features

• Contains 50 mg clomiphene citrate per tablet
• Available in blister packs of 10 or 30 tablets
• White, round, scored tablets for easy splitting
• Oral administration with high bioavailability
• Non-hormonal mechanism of action
• Generic alternatives available (clomiphene citrate)
• Temperature-stable formulation
• Manufactured under GMP standards

Benefits

• Effectively induces ovulation in approximately 80% of appropriately selected anovulatory women
• Enables timed intercourse and fertility awareness through predictable ovulation patterns
• Offers non-invasive oral administration compared to injectable fertility treatments
• Provides cost-effective first-line treatment option for ovulatory disorders
• Allows for cycle monitoring and adjustment through simple ultrasound and hormone level tracking
• May be used in combination with other fertility treatments for enhanced outcomes

Common use

Serophene is primarily prescribed for the treatment of ovulatory dysfunction in women desiring pregnancy. The most common indications include polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypothalamic amenorrhea, and unexplained anovulation. It may also be used off-label for male infertility in certain cases and for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation in assisted reproductive technologies. Treatment typically begins early in the menstrual cycle (days 3-5) and is carefully monitored through follicular tracking ultrasounds and hormonal assessments to optimize timing and minimize risks.

Dosage and direction

The initial recommended dosage is 50 mg (one tablet) daily for five days, beginning on day 3, 4, or 5 of the menstrual cycle. If ovulation does not occur, the dosage may be increased to 100 mg daily for five days in subsequent cycles. The maximum recommended daily dosage is 150 mg. Treatment should not exceed three to six cycles due to diminishing returns and potential endometrial effects. Tablets should be taken at approximately the same time each day, with or without food, and with a full glass of water.

Precautions

Patients should undergo thorough gynecological examination before treatment initiation to rule out pregnancy, ovarian cysts, or other contraindications. Regular monitoring through transvaginal ultrasound is essential to assess follicular development and prevent ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Liver function tests should be performed in patients with hepatic impairment. Visual disturbances, though rare, require immediate discontinuation and ophthalmological evaluation. Patients should be advised about the increased risk of multiple gestation (approximately 8% risk, primarily twins).

Contraindications

Serophene is contraindicated in patients with: pregnancy; undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding; ovarian cysts not related to polycystic ovarian syndrome; liver disease or dysfunction; uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal dysfunction; organic intracranial lesions such as pituitary tumors; and hypersensitivity to clomiphene citrate or any component of the formulation.

Possible side effects

Common side effects (≥10%) include vasomotor flushes (10-20%), abdominal discomfort (5-10%), and breast tenderness (2-5%). Less common effects (1-5%) include nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, headache, and abnormal uterine bleeding. Rare but serious adverse effects (<1%) include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, ovarian torsion, and cyst formation. Most side effects are dose-dependent and typically resolve upon discontinuation of therapy.

Drug interaction

Serophene may interact with several medications including: danazol (may diminish therapeutic effect); tamoxifen (additive estrogen antagonist effects); thrombolytic agents (potential increased risk of thrombotic events); and hormonal contraceptives (reduced efficacy of both agents). Concomitant use with gonadotropins requires careful monitoring due to synergistic effects on ovarian stimulation.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, patients should take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. Doubling of doses is not recommended. Consistent daily dosing is important for optimal follicular development, so patients should maintain a regular dosing schedule throughout the five-day treatment course.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, vasomotor flushes, visual disturbances, and abdominal pain. There is no specific antidote for clomiphene citrate overdose. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis is not likely to be effective due to high protein binding. Medical attention should be sought immediately in cases of suspected overdose.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F) in the original container. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly discard any unused medication after treatment completion.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Treatment with Serophene should only be undertaken under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider specializing in reproductive medicine. Individual response to therapy may vary, and treatment protocols should be tailored to each patient’s specific medical circumstances. Always follow your physician’s instructions regarding dosage, monitoring, and follow-up care.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate ovulation rates of 60-85% and pregnancy rates of 30-40% per ovulatory cycle in appropriately selected patients. Many reproductive endocrinologists consider Serophene the gold standard first-line treatment for anovulatory infertility. Patient satisfaction surveys indicate appreciation for its oral administration and relatively low cost compared to injectable alternatives, though some report frustration with side effects and the emotional challenges of fertility treatment. Long-term safety data support its use for limited treatment cycles.