Fertility Drugs (Oral)

Uses

Precaution

Side Effects

Handling

Uses

What is Fertility Drugs (Oral) 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.

How should I take or use Fertility Drugs (Oral)?

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 forget to take or use Fertility Drugs (Oral)?

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.

Precaution

What precautions should I take when taking or using Fertility Drugs (Oral)?

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.

Side Effects

What are some common side effects of Fertility Drugs (Oral)?

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).

Handling

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

Disclaimers

Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System, and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity, and Watsons), and the Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.