Clomiphene (Clomid Generic, 50mg)
Clomiphene is the generic name and product for the selective estrogen receptor modulator used to induce ovulation in women with anovulatory infertility. Sold under various brand names including Clomid, with the 50mg dose as the standard starting strength.
- Active ingredients
- Clomiphene
- Manufacturer
- Various generics
- Dosage forms
- tablet
- Available dosages
- 50mg
- Category
- Hormones and Birth Control
What is it?
Clomiphene (clomiphene citrate) is the generic form of the most widely used first-line ovulation induction agent, originally marketed as Clomid by Merrell-National Laboratories in 1967. Authorised generic clomiphene has been available for decades and is on the WHO Essential Medicines List. The product is prescribed for selected women with anovulatory infertility, particularly polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and is typically managed by a fertility specialist or gynaecologist with experience in ovulation induction.
Active ingredients
Each clomiphene tablet contains 50mg of clomiphene citrate, a non-steroidal selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). The molecule comprises two isomers — enclomiphene and zuclomiphene — with differing pharmacological profiles. Clomiphene citrate is the same active substance found in branded Clomid, with bioequivalent clinical effect under regulatory standards.
Forms and dosages
Clomiphene is supplied as 50mg tablets. The recommended starting dose is 50mg once daily for 5 days, beginning on day 2 to 5 of the menstrual cycle. If ovulation does not occur, the dose may be increased to 100mg or 150mg per day in subsequent cycles by the prescribing specialist. According to the prescribing information, the lowest effective dose is preferred, and treatment should not exceed 6 cycles without re-evaluation.
Indications
Clomiphene is indicated for ovulation induction in women with anovulatory infertility and intact pituitary-ovarian axis function, when other causes of infertility have been excluded or are being addressed. Polycystic ovary syndrome is the most common indication. The medication is not indicated for routine fertility enhancement in regularly ovulating women, for primary ovarian failure, or for any male indication (although off-label male use exists in some specialist settings).
How it works
Clomiphene blocks estrogen receptors at the hypothalamus, preventing the negative feedback that estrogen normally exerts on gonadotropin-releasing hormone production. The increased GnRH stimulates pituitary release of FSH and LH, which drives ovarian follicle development. Ovulation typically occurs 5 to 10 days after the last clomiphene tablet of the 5-day course. Effectiveness depends on intact hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis function and is greatest in PCOS-related anovulation.
Frequently asked questions
Is generic clomiphene as effective as Clomid? ▾
Authorised generic clomiphene must demonstrate bioequivalence to Clomid under regulatory standards. The active substance is identical, and the regulator-required plasma concentration profile is within a defined narrow range of the originator. Differences include manufacturer, excipients, tablet appearance and price. According to clinical guidelines, an authorised generic clomiphene is an acceptable substitute for Clomid in most patients. Some practitioners or patients have brand preferences, but no consistent clinical advantage of branded Clomid over generics has been demonstrated.
How is clomiphene taken? ▾
Clomiphene is taken as a 5-day course starting on day 2 to 5 of the menstrual cycle, with doses of 50mg once daily for the standard starting course. According to fertility guidelines, ovulation is monitored by ovulation predictor kits, mid-luteal progesterone, or ultrasound. If ovulation does not occur, the prescribing specialist may increase the dose in subsequent cycles. Tablets are typically taken at the same time each day, with or without food.
What are the success rates with clomiphene? ▾
Approximately 70-85% of women with anovulatory infertility ovulate in response to clomiphene at adequate doses, with cumulative pregnancy rates of approximately 30-40% over 6 cycles in suitable candidates. According to fertility guidelines, success is highest in PCOS and lowest in hypothalamic amenorrhea or premature ovarian failure. If pregnancy does not occur after 3-6 ovulatory cycles, alternative approaches (gonadotropins, IVF, letrozole) should be considered.
Can men take clomiphene? ▾
Clomiphene is not formally approved for male use. Some specialists prescribe it off-label for men with hypogonadism or selected male infertility (low testosterone with intact pituitary function), where it can stimulate endogenous testosterone production and spermatogenesis. According to current male infertility guidelines, off-label clomiphene use in men should be initiated and monitored by a specialist (typically a urologist or reproductive endocrinologist), with attention to testosterone levels, semen analysis and side effects.
What contraindications and warnings apply? ▾
Clomiphene is contraindicated in pregnancy, severe liver disease, abnormal uterine bleeding of unknown cause, active thromboembolic disease and uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal disease. Caution is required in PCOS due to increased risk of ovarian hyperstimulation. Persistent visual disturbances during treatment require discontinuation. According to the prescribing information, treatment should not exceed 6 cycles without re-evaluation, and pregnancy testing is required before each new cycle.
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The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.