Enclomiphene
Also known as enclomiphene citrate
What it is
Enclomiphene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator taken orally. Rather than supplying testosterone from outside the body, it acts at the pituitary to increase LH and FSH, which in turn stimulate the testes to produce more testosterone.
How it is used
Because it works through the body's own axis, it does not carry the same suppressive effect on sperm production that exogenous testosterone does. That makes it a common consideration where fertility is a priority. It is taken orally on a schedule set by the prescriber.
What a provider evaluates first
- Whether the cause is secondary rather than primary hypogonadism
- Baseline LH and FSH, which indicate whether the axis can respond
- Fertility intentions
- Prior response to testosterone therapy, if any
Considerations and monitoring
- Not appropriate where the testes cannot respond — primary hypogonadism
- Not FDA-approved for this use; prescribed at provider discretion
- Response varies and is confirmed by follow-up laboratory work
- Mood and visual disturbances are reported and should be raised promptly
Questions about enclomiphene
What is enclomiphene?
Enclomiphene is an oral selective estrogen receptor modulator that acts at the pituitary to increase LH and FSH, which in turn stimulate the testes to produce more testosterone. Because it works through the body's own axis rather than replacing testosterone from outside, it does not carry the same suppressive effect on sperm production. It is compounded, is not FDA-approved for this use, and is prescribed at provider discretion.
How does enclomiphene differ from testosterone therapy?
Testosterone replaces the hormone directly and suppresses the body's own production. Enclomiphene stimulates the body to produce more of its own and does not carry the same suppressive effect on fertility. Enclomiphene depends on the testes being able to respond, so it is generally considered for secondary rather than primary hypogonadism. Which is appropriate is a clinical judgement based on your laboratory results and goals.
Part of TRT & Men's Health.