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Clomiphene vs. Anastrozole

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

Clomid

(clomiphene)

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Anastrozole

(Arimidex)

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Summary for Clomiphene

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 Clomiphene

Pros and Cons for Clomiphene

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 Clomiphene

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

Warnings for Clomiphene

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

Summary for Anastrozole

Prescription only

Anastrozole (Arimidex) is prescription oral medication used to treat certain types of breast cancer, including both early and advanced or metastatic stages. It's FDA approved only for postmenopausal women, or those who have already gone through menopause. This medication belongs to a class called aromatase inhibitors, which works by lowering estrogen levels in the body. You take one tablet by mouth once a day, with or without food. Common side effects include hot flashes, weakness, and joint pain.

Indications for Anastrozole

Pros and Cons for Anastrozole

Pros

  • Oral tablet taken once a day
  • Can be taken with or without food
  • Helps reduce the risk of breast cancer coming back

Cons

  • Only FDA approved to treat postmenopausal women
  • Commonly causes hot flashes, joint pain, weakness
  • Typically need to take it for at least 5 years

Common Side Effects for Anastrozole

Early breast cancer:

  • Hot flashes (36%)
  • Muscle and joint problems (36%)
  • Tiredness (19%)
  • Changes in mood (19%)
  • Nausea and vomiting (13%)
  • Bone fractures (10%)

Advanced or metastatic breast cancer:

  • Nausea and vomiting (34%)
  • Hot flashes (26%)

Advanced breast cancer that's worsened after tamoxifen treatment:

  • Nausea and vomiting (29%)
  • Hot flashes (13%)

Warnings for Anastrozole

  • Heart disease
  • Bone loss
  • Rise in cholesterol levels
  • Harm to unborn baby

Prices with our coupons for Clomiphene vs. Anastrozole

Price Card Drug Icon
Clomid30 tablets / 50mg
$111.49-
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Anastrozole12 tablets / 1mg
$10.07$105.76
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