Clomifene, also known as clomiphene, is a medication used to treat infertility in women who do not ovulate.[3] This includes those who have polycystic ovary syndrome.[3] Use results in a greater chance of twins.[3] It is taken by mouth once a day with a course of treatment generally lasting five days.[3]

Common side effects include pelvic pain and hot flashes.[3] Other side effects can include changes in vision, vomiting, trouble sleeping, ovarian cancer, and seizures.[3][4] It is not recommended in people with liver disease, abnormal vaginal bleeding of unknown cause, or who are pregnant.[4][5] Clomifene is in the selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) family of medication and is a nonsteroidal medication.[6][5] It works by causing the release of GnRH by the hypothalamus, and subsequently gonadotropin from the anterior pituitary.[4]

Clomifene was approved for medical use in the United States in 1967.[3] It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system.[7] It is available as a generic medication.[3] The wholesale cost in the developing world is about 0.79 to 2.00 USD for a course of treatment.[8] In the United States the wholesale cost of a course of treatment is 4.80 USD.[9] Its introduction began the era of assisted reproductive technology.[10]

Source - Wikipedia