Clomiphene Citrate

What is Clomiphene Citrate?

Clomiphene is a medication classified as a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). It works by blocking estrogen receptors in the brain, which reduces estrogen’s negative feedback on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. This leads to increased release of the gonadotropins luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

In women, clomiphene is commonly used to stimulate ovulation by promoting follicular development in the ovaries. Men also respond to clomiphene; it increases endogenous testosterone production by raising LH and FSH levels while generally preserving sperm production and semen volume. One component of clomiphene citrate, the trans isomer, has a relatively short half-life of about 10 hours.