Clomiphene vs. Tamoxifen for Fertility and Breast Cancer: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Clomiphene

(Clomid)

Tamoxifen

(Nolvadex)

Summary for Clomiphene

Prescription only

Clomiphene (Clomid) is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) used to treat fertility problems in people who want to become pregnant. It works by helping your body release an egg, ovulation. You'll take the medication by mouth once a day for 5 days during a specific part of your menstrual cycle. Common side effects include hot flashes, bloating, and stomach pain.

Indications for Clomiphene

Female infertility

Pros and Cons for Clomiphene

Pros

Might work better for people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Usually only taken for 5 days during each cycle
Available as a tablet you take by mouth

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 discomfort/bloating (6%)

Warnings for Clomiphene

Vision changes
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
Multiple pregnancy
Possible harm to unborn baby

Summary for Tamoxifen

Prescription only

Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). It’s used to treat early stage and advanced or metastatic hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer in males and females. It’s also used to lower the risk for breast cancer in females who have a higher risk for breast cancer. Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) is an oral tablet that's taken by mouth, usually once a day. Common side effects of this medication include hot flashes, vaginal discharge, and swelling in the arms and legs, which might lead to weight gain. Brand name Nolvadex is no longer available.

Indications for Tamoxifen

Metastatic HR+ breast cancer
Early-stage HR+ breast cancer after surgery to lower the risk of breast cancer coming back
Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) in females after breast surgery and radiation to lower the risk of breast cancer coming back
Lowering the risk of breast cancer in females who are considered high risk

Pros and Cons for Tamoxifen

Pros

Usually taken once a day
Oral tablet is available as a lower-cost generic
Might help prevent bone loss (osteoporosis) after menopause

Cons

Might raise your risk for blood clots, uterine cancer, and cataracts
Can’t take while pregnant or breastfeeding
Usually taken long term (at least 5 years)

Common Side Effects for Tamoxifen

Hot flashes (up to 80%)
Vaginal discharge (up to 55%)
Swelling in the arms and legs (up to 32%)
Nausea (up to 26%)
Irregular or no monthly bleeding (up to 25%)
Vaginal bleeding (up to 23%)
Weight loss (23%)
Skin changes (19%)

Warnings for Tamoxifen

Blood clots
Changes in the uterus and risk of uterine cancer
Eye problems
Liver problems
High calcium levels in the blood
Low platelet count (risk of bleeding)
Harm to unborn baby

Prices with our coupons for Clomiphene vs. Tamoxifen

Clomid30 tablets / 50mg

$111.49-

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Tamoxifen90 tablets / 20mg

$40.84$208.25

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Clomiphene vs. Tamoxifen

Clomiphene

Tamoxifen

Summary for Clomiphene

Indications for Clomiphene

Pros and Cons for Clomiphene

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Clomiphene

Warnings for Clomiphene

Summary for Tamoxifen

Indications for Tamoxifen

Pros and Cons for Tamoxifen

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Tamoxifen

Warnings for Tamoxifen

Prices with our coupons for Clomiphene vs. Tamoxifen

Compare other Fertility and Breast Cancer drugs

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Clomiphene

Tamoxifen

Summary for Clomiphene

Indications for Clomiphene

Pros and Cons for Clomiphene

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Clomiphene

Warnings for Clomiphene

Summary for Tamoxifen

Indications for Tamoxifen

Pros and Cons for Tamoxifen

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Tamoxifen

Warnings for Tamoxifen