Clomectin

Quick links to important sections

Clomectin

Treatment option:

Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Clomectin

What is Clomectin?

Clomectin is a pharmaceutical formulation that combines two distinct active ingredients: clomiphene citrate and ivermectin. This combination is primarily used in veterinary medicine, specifically for the treatment and management of conditions in livestock and certain domestic animals.

Components and Mechanism of Action

The two components of Clomectin serve different therapeutic purposes:

  • Clomiphene Citrate: This agent belongs to the class of medications known as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). In a veterinary context, it is utilized for its influence on the endocrine system, specifically to stimulate the release of gonadotropins. This can assist in regulating or inducing ovulation in female animals, supporting reproductive health and management.
  • Ivermectin: This is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic agent. It works by interfering with the nerve and muscle functions of various parasites, leading to their paralysis and eventual elimination from the animal's body. It is effective against a wide range of internal parasites, such as gastrointestinal roundworms, as well as external parasites like mites and lice.

Therapeutic Purpose

By integrating these two ingredients, Clomectin addresses two separate health concerns simultaneously. It is designed to improve reproductive outcomes by managing hormonal cycles while ensuring the animal remains free from the physiological stress and nutritional depletion caused by parasitic infections. This dual-action approach supports the overall health and productivity of the animal.

Regulatory References

  1. VETRIMEC PLUS (ivermectin and clorsulon) Injection Label - DailyMed

What side effects are possible with Clomectin?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

This information describes the possible side effects and safety characteristics of Clomectin, based strictly on official governmental regulatory documents (e.g., FDA and EMA labeling).

The safety profile is formally classified by frequency and system-organ class. Very common and common adverse reactions (occurring in ge 1% of patients) primarily affect the Reproductive System and Vascular Disorders. These commonly reported effects include vasomotor flushing (hot flashes), headache, abdominal discomfort, nausea/vomiting, and ovarian enlargement. Less common reactions (le 1%) include dizziness, depression, and abnormal uterine bleeding.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Restrictions

The label documents specific serious risks. The most clinically significant is Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), a severe, potentially life-threatening complication. Other documented serious events include thromboembolic events (such as stroke or pulmonary embolism), which have been reported, and cases of severe, potentially irreversible visual impairment.

Safety restrictions establish strict limitations for use. The medication is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease or a history of liver dysfunction, pregnancy, and certain pre-existing conditions like pituitary tumors. Additionally, the official labeling notes that the risk of developing a borderline or invasive ovarian tumor is associated with prolonged use of the medicine (typically exceeding six cycles). The incidence of visual symptoms is also noted to increase with the total dose or duration of therapy.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The information below is derived strictly from government regulatory documentation regarding Clomectin (Clomiphene Citrate) overexposure and mandated emergency procedures.

Category Official Regulatory Statement
Documented Manifestations Overdose is documented to include nausea, vomiting, and vasomotor flushes. Key presentations are pelvic/abdominal pain and swelling (indicative of ovarian enlargement) and visual disturbances such as blurred vision and scotomata (blind spots).
Severe Outcomes The risk of Severe Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) is present, which is classified as life-threatening and may lead to thromboembolism and hypotension. Irreversible visual impairment has also been documented following exposure.
Antidote Information No specific antidote is known for overdose. Management is strictly symptomatic and supportive (e.g., gastric lavage, fluid management).

When Urgent Medical Help is Required

Official guidance mandates that individuals seek immediate medical attention for suspected overexposure to Clomectin. The most urgent action is to call 911 or local emergency services immediately if the person collapses, has a seizure, experiences trouble breathing, or cannot be awakened. Hospital monitoring may be required to manage the progression of severe complications and address potential fluid and electrolyte imbalance.

Therapeutic Uses of Clomectin

What Clomectin Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Quick Facts (Therapeutic Domains)
* Supports Ovulation: Utilized to help induce egg production in women who experience ovulatory dysfunction.
* Addresses Infertility: May be used in therapeutic regimens for certain types of female infertility, particularly in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
* May Support Spermatogenesis: Sometimes applied in the management of select cases of male infertility to help promote sperm development.

Clomectin is a medication primarily prescribed to address infertility in women who do not regularly produce ova (eggs) and who wish to conceive. Its common application is in inducing ovulation in patients diagnosed with anovulatory or oligo-ovulatory infertility, including those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

This agent is considered a foundational part of some initial fertility management protocols. It is also sometimes employed by healthcare professionals for certain cases of male infertility to help stimulate the production of sperm. Clomectin is indicated for these specific therapeutic applications.

Secondary applications may involve the management of menstrual abnormalities or persistent breast milk production, in contexts deemed appropriate by a medical specialist. Consult a qualified professional for guidance on its intended use and whether it is a suitable treatment option.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Clomectin's eligibility is strictly defined by regulatory documents, restricting its use to a specific adult population and prohibiting use in patients with certain pre-existing conditions. The medicine is indicated solely for adult women with demonstrated ovulatory dysfunction who desire pregnancy. Use is not established or is not recommended for pediatric or geriatric populations.

Eligibility Scope

Category Official Regulatory Status
Populations for whom use is allowed Adult women with ovulatory dysfunction (e.g., PCOS) and adequate endogenous estrogen levels.
Populations for whom use is contraindicated Patients who are or may be pregnant; those with active liver disease or a history of hepatic dysfunction; and individuals with undetermined abnormal uterine bleeding.
Condition-specific eligibility rules Contraindicated in cases of uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal dysfunction, as well as the presence of an organic intracranial lesion (e.g., pituitary tumor). Use is prohibited in patients with ovarian cysts or enlargement not due to polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Pregnancy and lactation status Contraindicated in pregnancy. Caution is advised during lactation, as the drug may reduce milk production.

This official structure ensures that the drug is reserved for the designated patient group while preventing administration in the presence of specific, high-risk comorbidities.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

This section describes the officially documented interaction patterns between Clomectin and other medicinal products, foods, supplements, or substances, based strictly on government regulatory information.

The primary and most critical restriction documented in regulatory labeling involves co-administration with the antiestrogen Ospemifene. This combination is formally classified as contraindicated and must be strictly avoided. The regulatory basis for this prohibition is a pharmacodynamic synergism documented between the two agents, which can lead to an increase in the effects of either substance. This classification represents a high-level restriction in official prescribing information.

Official government-mandated product information, such as the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) and FDA prescribing data, does not formally detail interactions related to the metabolic clearance of Clomectin. Specifically, there are no documented or clinically significant interactions involving major enzyme pathways like Cytochrome P450 (CYP) or drug transporters (e.g., P-gp).

Furthermore, regulatory documents do not specify mandatory timing-based rules that require Clomectin doses to be separated by a certain number of hours from any other specific medicinal product. Interactions with common substances such as food, alcohol, or herbal products are also not explicitly documented in official government sources, indicating a limited and focused interaction profile primarily centered on the pharmacodynamic contraindication.

Mechanism of Action

Clomectin is a pharmacologic agent that selectively targets and accumulates within osteoclasts and related bone remodeling cells. Its primary mechanism involves the inhibition of the farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase (FPPS) enzyme within the mevalonate pathway.

By preventing the catalytic activity of FPPS, Clomectin effectively disrupts the prenylation of small GTPases such as Rac1 and RhoA. This lack of proper prenylation renders the GTPases inactive. Consequently, the cytoskeletal integrity and cellular functions required for osteoclast adhesion to the bone surface are compromised.

The inhibition of these critical intracellular signaling molecules leads to the disruption of the osteoclast ruffled border, thereby inactivating the cell’s ability to resorb bone mineral matrix. This physiological modulation results in a net decrease in the rate of bone matrix turnover and prevents the excessive dissolution of mineralized tissue.

Dosage and Administration Information

How Clomectin is Used: Administration Guidelines

Clomectin (Clomiphene Citrate) is an oral medication with a highly structured, cyclic dosing regimen designed for use in specialized therapeutic settings. The proper administration and schedule are defined to ensure standardized use in clinical practice.


Administration Protocol

Instruction Domain Requirement
Route of Administration Oral (taken by mouth as a tablet).
Dosage Form and Strength Typically administered as a 50 mg tablet.
Course Duration & Schedule Therapy is administered in 5-day courses separated by specific intervals.
Standard Initial Dose The standard starting regimen is 50 mg taken once daily for 5 consecutive days.
Dose Titration If the initial course is unsuccessful, the dose for the subsequent cycle may be increased to 100 mg once daily for 5 days.
Maximum Courses Use is limited to approximately six total courses over the entire treatment period.

Required Context and Timing

Administration is coordinated with the patient's menstrual cycle. The first dose is typically initiated on or about the 5th day of the menstrual cycle. If a patient has not recently experienced uterine bleeding, the course may begin at any time.

Before initiating or repeating any course, a pregnancy check and pelvic examination are standard procedures. The maximum dose is strictly limited to 100 mg daily for 5 days. For certain populations, such as those with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a lower dose or reduced duration may be used to accommodate increased sensitivity.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Evidence for Use in Inducing Ovulation (Women)

Research for this medication was conducted using Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and Systematic Reviews, focusing on women with anovulatory infertility, including Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Studies examined outcomes such as the frequency of egg release (ovulation), resulting pregnancy rate, and Live Birth Rate. Studies monitored patterns of egg release in the treated population. What remains uncertain are the factors contributing to the observed difference between the measured rate of egg release and the rate of subsequent pregnancy. Research describes that multiple gestation was observed in some studies, and data are still emerging regarding managing patients who exhibit treatment resistance.


Evidence for Use in Supporting Spermatogenesis (Men)

The research exploring the use of this medication in managing certain types of male infertility involves different study types (Systematic Reviews and Cohort Studies) compared to the data for female patients. Research examined men experiencing hormonal imbalance, monitoring changes in sperm concentration, motility, and hormonal biomarkers. The findings were mixed across studies, and the evidence quality varies due to modest sample sizes and limited follow-up. The research for these measured changes in sperm parameters does not fully characterize the clinical outcome of successful pregnancy.


Long-Term Outcomes and Research Limitations

Most available evidence reflects short- to intermediate-term observation, typically focused on results obtained during the course of the medication cycles. This means that follow-up durations were limited in many key studies, and the long-term effects are not fully established based on the current research landscape. Data for certain groups remain insufficient, such as for those with pre-existing health conditions or high body mass index. The research provides context about group patterns, but research does not determine whether an individual will respond similarly.

Key Studies & References Clomiphene Citrate Tablet Label (Full Prescribing Information)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Clomectin (FAQ)

Q: What is Clomectin, and how does it work?

Clomectin is a medication that contains the active ingredient ivermectin. It belongs to a class of medicines known as anthelmintics (anti-parasitic drugs). Ivermectin works by selectively binding to specific channels in the nerve and muscle cells of parasites. This action leads to the paralysis and eventual death of the parasite.

Q: What is Clomectin typically used to treat?

Clomectin (ivermectin) is approved for use in humans to treat specific infections caused by parasitic worms, including:

  • Strongyloidiasis (threadworm infection), which is an intestinal infection.
  • Onchocerciasis (river blindness), which is an infection caused by a different type of roundworm.

It is also sometimes used in an off-label manner (unapproved by the FDA for that specific use) to treat certain other conditions, such as scabies and lice, when other treatments are not effective or appropriate.

Q: How should I take Clomectin?

Clomectin tablets are usually taken by mouth as a single dose with water. It is generally recommended to take the tablet on an empty stomach. For certain conditions, like onchocerciasis, additional doses may be required months later.

Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider and pharmacist regarding the exact timing, dosage, and whether you should take it with food.

Q: What should I tell my doctor before taking Clomectin?

Before taking Clomectin, you should inform your doctor about:

  • All medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as some may interact with Clomectin.
  • Any allergies you have to ivermectin or any other drug.
  • Any history of or current conditions like liver disease, kidney disease, or other chronic illnesses.
  • If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Providing a complete medical history helps your healthcare provider determine if Clomectin is safe for you.

Q: What are some common side effects of Clomectin?

Common side effects that may occur with Clomectin include:

  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weakness

If you are being treated for onchocerciasis, you may also experience temporary reactions related to the death of the worms, such as joint pain, tender lymph nodes, and eye symptoms. Always report any side effects to your healthcare provider.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Clomectin?

Clomectin is often taken as a single-dose treatment. If your prescription involves a follow-up dose, or if you miss a scheduled dose, you should contact your healthcare provider for advice. Do not double your dose to make up for the missed dose.

How should Clomectin be stored and disposed of?

Storage Requirements

Clomectin (Clomiphene Citrate Tablets) must be stored at controlled room temperature, typically defined as mathbf15^circC to mathbf30^circC (mathbf59^circF to mathbf86^circF).

The official labeling mandates that the product be protected from light and excessive moisture. The tablets should remain in their original, tightly closed container to preserve stability until the expiration date. As a mandatory safety requirement, the medicine must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Disposal of any unused or expired Clomectin must follow local regulatory guidelines. Where specific take-back programs are unavailable and no official instructions to flush are provided, the FDA recommends mixing the tablets with an undesirable substance (such as used coffee grounds) and placing the mixture in a sealed bag before discarding it in the household trash. This procedure prevents accidental consumption.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Clomectin found in:

A-Z Index: