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Fertility Drugs (Oral)

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Hormone Adult

Fertility Drugs (Oral) - What is it for

​​Clomiphene or Letrozole are used as fertility medications in some women who are unable to become pregnant. They work by changing the hormone balance of the body, causing ovulation to occur and thus prepares the body for conception.

Fertility Drugs (Oral) - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Fertility Drugs (Oral) cause?

The most common side effects include:

  • Bloating, nausea/vomiting (May be taken after food to minimize stomach discomfort)
  • Hot flushes (Wear loose fitting clothes or go to areas with air-conditioning)
  • Dizziness/light-headedness and fatigue
  • Muscle aches or joint pains
  • Headache (Paracetamol can be taken to relief the headache)

Inform your doctor if the side effects above become severe and bothersome.

There are some potentially serious, but rare side effects that may be experienced:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Chest pain, edema or swelling in leg or arm

Stop the medication and inform your doctor immediately if the side effects above occur, or if you experience any other side effects and allergic reactions (e.g. rash, swelling of the eyes and lips, difficulty breathing).

Before taking Fertility Drugs (Oral) , what precautions must I follow?

​​These medications should not be used in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding (ensure that a urine pregnancy test is done before taking the medication) or those with liver dysfunction.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Fertility Drugs (Oral) ?

Fertility Drugs (Oral) - Dosage and How to Use

How should Fertility Drugs (Oral) be used?

​​Take this medication only as directed by your doctor. This medication is usually taken when you start having your full flow menstruation. Take for a duration of 5 days (typically from Day 2 to Day 6 of menstruation), preferably at the same time each day. It can be administered with or without food. However, if you experience any stomach discomfort after taking the medication on an empty stomach, please take it after food.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

​​Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

What should I do if I overdose?

Fertility Drugs (Oral) - Handling

How should I handle Fertility Drugs (Oral) safely?

Fertility Drugs (Oral) - Storage

How should I store Fertility Drugs (Oral) ?

;#Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;#Store at room temperature;#

How should I dispose of Fertility Drugs (Oral) safely?

Fertility Drugs (Oral) - Additional Information

  • Tags: Clomiphene
  • Updated on 8/1/2014 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by Pharmacy Department KK Women's and Children's Hospital
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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