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Fertility Glossary

Clomiphene citrate

An oral medicine used to stimulate ovulation, particularly in women with PCOS.

Fertility medicines

Clomiphene citrate is an oral medicine used to induce or regulate ovulation, particularly in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other causes of irregular ovulation. It works by blocking oestrogen receptors in the brain, which increases the release of FSH and LH from the pituitary gland to stimulate follicle growth. Clomiphene has been used for ovulation induction for decades and remains an option in Indian fertility practice, though many specialists now consider letrozole first-line for women with PCOS based on current evidence. Treatment is monitored with ultrasound to check the ovarian response and to time intercourse or IUI. This entry does not describe a dose or treatment schedule; these are decided individually by the treating clinician.

Also known as: clomid, CC

Sources

  • ICMR Standard Treatment Workflows (icmr.gov.in/standard-treatment-workflows-stws)
  • Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (fogsi.org)

Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only โ€” always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

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