Clomiphene (Clomid)

Clomiphene, commonly known by its brand name Clomid, is an oral fertility medication that works by blocking estrogen receptors in the brain, tricking the pituitary gland into producing more follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to stimulate egg development and ovulation. While historically the standard first-line treatment for PCOS-related infertility, clinical evidence now favors letrozole as the preferred initial option due to higher ovulation and pregnancy rates. Clomiphene remains a viable alternative for women who don't respond to or tolerate letrozole, and is typically taken for five days early in the menstrual cycle with monitoring to assess response.