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Clomid vs. Testosterone

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Clomid (clomiphene) and testosterone gel (Androgel) are both medications used to address reproductive health conditions, but they belong to different medication classes and have distinct uses. Clomid is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) primarily used to treat female infertility by inducing ovulation. It is taken orally for a short duration each cycle. Testosterone gel, on the other hand, is a testosterone replacement therapy used to treat low testosterone levels in adult males. It is applied topically to the skin daily. While Clomid is available as a lower-cost generic, testosterone gel is available in various brand names like Testim and AndroGel, with some available as generics. Clomid's common side effects include hot flashes and bloating, whereas testosterone gel can cause skin irritation and acne. Additionally, testosterone gel is a controlled substance due to its risk of leading to misuse and dependence, while Clomid is not.

Clomid

(clomiphene)

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testosterone gel

 

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Summary for Clomid

Prescription only

Clomid (clomiphene) is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) used to treat infertility in people wanting to become pregnant. It works by causing ovulation, or egg release. You'll take a dose by mouth every day for 5 days, typically during your menstrual period. Some of the more common side effects include hot flashes, bloating, and stomach pain.

Indications for Clomid

Pros and Cons for Clomid

Pros

Cons

  • Typically only recommended for up to 3 cycles, not a long-term treatment
  • Can cause vision problems in some rare cases
  • Not safe if you have liver problems or certain thyroid problems

Common Side Effects for Clomid

  • Swollen ovaries (14%)
  • Hot flashes (10%)
  • Stomach pain, discomfort, or bloating (6%)

Warnings for Clomid

  • Vision changes
  • Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
  • Possible risk of harm to unborn baby

Summary for Testosterone

Prescription only

Testosterone gel is a prescription topical medication used to treat men with low testosterone. It helps raise testosterone levels when your body doesn't make enough naturally. You typically apply it once a day to your skin. Depending on the product, the gel comes in packets, pumps, or tubes. Some side effects include skin irritation, mood changes, and headache.

Note: This medication is available under several brand names, including AndroGel, Testim, and Vogelxo as well as in generic versions. Each might have different strengths, application sites, and instructions.

Indications for Testosterone

Pros and Cons for Testosterone

Pros

  • Works well to raise testosterone levels
  • Applied once a day to your skin
  • Available in tubes, packets, or as a pump

Cons

  • Can cause skin irritation
  • Must avoid skin-to-skin transfer to other people
  • Need to wait hours before you can shower, swim, or bathe

Common Side Effects for Testosterone

AndroGel 1.62%

AndroGel 1%

  • Acne (1-8%)
  • Abnormal lab tests (3-6%)
  • Skin irritation (3-5%)
  • Prostate problems (3-5%)

Testim

  • Skin irritation (2-4%)
  • Rise in red blood cell count (1-2%)

Vogelxo

  • Skin irritation (2-4%)
  • Rise in red blood cell count (1-2%)

Warnings for Testosterone

  • Risk of testosterone gel spreading to others
  • Higher red blood cell count
  • Blood clots
  • Worsening of enlarged prostate and risk of prostate cancer
  • Higher blood pressure
  • Potential for misuse, addiction, and dependency
  • Lower sperm count
  • Liver problems
  • Swelling in the arms and legs (edema)
  • Enlarged breasts
  • Breathing problems during sleep (sleep apnea)
  • Changes in cholesterol levels
  • High calcium levels

Prices with our coupons for Clomid vs. Testosterone

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Clomid30 tablets / 50mg
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Testosterone1 pump / 88g of 1.62%
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