What Are the Different Clomiphene Side Effects?

Several different clomiphene side effects have been reported by patients, and these can be classified into common and rare side effects. More common reactions such as drowsiness, nausea, and dry mouth are unlikely to cause serious problems. Rare side effects such as those associated with allergic reaction, restlessness, trouble urinating, and tremors are more serious and affected patients should contact a doctor. There is also an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in adolescents treated with antidepressant drugs such as clomiphene. The drug is classified as a tricyclic antidepressant, and works on the neurotransmitters within the brain.

The most commonly reported clomiphene side effects include constipation, dizziness, and weight changes. Flushing, blurred vision, and sweating are other common side effects that are not cause for particular concern. These effects should only be reported to a doctor if they are particularly severe or persistent. Many of the common side effects can be managed through lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medicines. For example, patients suffering from constipation can switch to a diet higher in fiber, consume more water than they ordinarily would, or use laxative medicines to manage the problem.

More serious and less common clomiphene side effects are irregular periods, changes in sexual desire, and changes in mood. Confusion, memory loss, hallucinations, and depression fall under the definition of changes in mood. Very serious clomiphene side effects include the yellowing of the eyes or skin, chest pain, seizures, and black, tarry stools. As with most medications, it is also possible to have an allergic reaction, resulting in symptoms such as itching, rash, and swelling of the face. Any side effects not listed on the information leaflet that is provided with the medicine should also be considered serious.

Antidepressant medications such as clomiphene have been associated with suicidal thoughts and behavior in adolescents. This reaction is very rare, but the severity of it has lead regulatory bodies to place warnings on all eligible medicines. Worsening depression or suicidal thoughts are more likely to occur at the beginning of treatment, during any change in dose, or just after dosing has been stopped. Any patients experiencing these side effects should contact a doctor immediately. It is important to note that the medicine will likely not begin to have a positive effect for between two to four weeks.

Clomiphene is classified as a tricyclic antidepressant. Tricyclic antidepressants act on the neurotransmitters serotonin and noradrenaline within the brain, which are believed to affect the mood of the patient. Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers employed by the brain, and some improve mood while traveling between neurons. Drugs such as clomiphene prevent nerves from taking up serotonin and noradrenaline, thus prolonging their mood-improving effects.