Zuclomifene

Zuclomifene

Chemical structure of Zuclomifene

Zuclomifene is a nonsteroidal selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that is used in the treatment of infertility in women. It is one of the two geometric isomers of clomifene, the other being enclomifene. Zuclomifene is the more active isomer and is responsible for the majority of the pharmacological effects of clomifene.

Mechanism of Action

Zuclomifene works by binding to estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, which leads to an increase in the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). This, in turn, stimulates the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which promote ovulation in women who are anovulatory or oligo-ovulatory.

Clinical Use

Zuclomifene is primarily used in the treatment of female infertility due to anovulation, such as in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It is administered orally and is typically given in a cycle of 5 days, starting on the fifth day of the menstrual cycle.

Side Effects

Common side effects of zuclomifene include hot flashes, abdominal discomfort, and breast tenderness. In some cases, it may cause ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which can be a serious condition.

Pharmacokinetics

Zuclomifene is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and has a long half-life, which allows for once-daily dosing. It is metabolized in the liver and excreted primarily in the feces.

Related Compounds

Zuclomifene is closely related to enclomifene, the other isomer of clomifene. While both isomers have similar effects, zuclomifene is considered to be the more potent of the two.

Related Pages

• Clomifene
• Selective estrogen receptor modulator
• Infertility
• Ovulation induction