
Clomiphene in Men's Hormone Therapy
Mechanism of Action: Clomiphene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM).
It works by blocking estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which reduces negative feedback from estrogen. This stimulates the release of gonadotropins (LH and FSH), which can increase testosterone production in the testes.
Uses in Men's HRT:
- Hypogonadism Clomiphene is sometimes used as an alternative to traditional testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in men with low testosterone (Low T).
- Fertility Preservation:Unlike TRT, clomiphene maintains or improves sperm production, making it a preferred choice for men who wish to retain fertility.
- Non-invasive (oral pill).
- Avoids suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which can occur with exogenous testosterone.
- Typically fewer side effects related to polycythemia (increased red blood cell count) and estrogen conversion.
Potential side effects include mood changes, headaches, vision disturbances, and, in rare cases, gynecomastia (breast tissue growth).