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Clomifene

Clomifene chemical structure

Clomifene

(E,Z)-2-(4-(2-chloro-1,2-diphenylethenyl)phenoxy)-
N,N-diethyl-ethanamine
CAS number
911-45-5 or 50-41-9
ATC code
G03GB02
Chemical formula C26H28ClNO
Molecular weight 406 (without citrate)
598.10 (with citrate)
Bioavailability High (>90%)
Metabolism Hepatic (with enterohepatic circulation)
Elimination half life 5-7 days
Excretion Mainly renal, some biliary
Pregnancy category X (USA)
Legal status N/A
Delivery 50 mg tablets

Clomifene or Clomifene citrate (old name clomiphene, sold as Clomid®, Serophene®, Milophene® and many others) is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), used mainly in female infertility due to anovulation (e.g. due to polycystic ovary syndrome). In some countries, it is also registered for use in men.

Clomifene is mixture of two geometric isomers, enclomifene and zuclomifene.

Clomifene acts by inhibiting the action of estrogen on the gonadotrope cells in the anterior pituitary gland. "Sensing" low estrogen levels, follicle-stimulating hormone release is increased, leading to a higher rate of ovulation and hence pregnancy.

Clomifene can lead to multiple ovulation, and hence increasing the risk of twins. In comparison to purified FSH, the rate of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is low. There may be an increased risk of ovarian cancer.



Last updated: 02-13-2005 15:28:54
Last updated: 04-25-2005 03:06:01