Serophene® is a medication used in fertility treatments. Women who wish to become pregnant but who do not produce eggs normally can be prescribed this drug in order to stimulate the reproductive system to begin to create viable eggs. Also known by the generic name clomiphene, it typically encourages the ovaries to produce at least one if not more eggs during each hormonal cycle.
Normally, it is the presence of estrogen in the body that stimulates the production of eggs. Once the body stops naturally producing this chemical, production of eggs stops, and a women goes through menopause and is no longer able to become pregnant. If there is not enough estrogen present in the body before this time, this can present fertility problems for a younger woman. Serophene® acts much in the same way as estrogen and stimulates the ovaries to function properly.
As it works similarly to estrogen, this medication can also be used for women who have abnormal or difficult menstruations. Serophene® might also be prescribed to women who have stopped breastfeeding but continue to produce milk. On occasion, it can also be taken by men who are suffering from infertility problems; estrogen is also produced in men, only in smaller quantities.
Administration of Serophene® is typically only for a short time and under the supervision of a medical professional. An oral medication, a single dose will stimulate the production and release of an egg or eggs and is therefore not taken long-term by women who are attempting to become pregnant. Most medical professionals or fertility specialists will only recommend a few doses of Serophene®; if they are unsuccessful, this treatment will generally stop and something else will be attempted. Most individuals will be recommended only three doses of the medication, and more than six can put the individual at high risk for developing other conditions. Taking the medication over a longer period also can increase an individual's chance of developing some types of cancer, particularly ovarian cancer.
Side effects of Serophene® are generally mild, and include some that are associated with the reproductive system. For example, breasts can become tender and sore, and vaginal bleeding not associated with a normal menstrual period also may occur. There may be gastrointestinal issues, such as stomach aches and vomiting, as well. Some individuals may suffer from serious side effects, which should be immediately reported to a medical professional. Vision problems, difficulty breathing, or unexpected, rapid weight gain can all result in treatment with Serophene® being stopped.