Fertility Drugs

Fertility drugs can be used in the treatment of some women who have been trying to get pregnant but have been unable to do so naturally. They are the main treatment for women who have fertility issues related to polycystic ovary syndrome and men and women who have fertility issues related to hormone imbalances. The most common fertility drugs are: 

  • Clomifene citrate (Clomid) 

  • Metformin 

  • Gonadotrophins - Some men have a low sperm count because the pituitary gland in the brain isn’t producing enough gonadotrophins. Gonadotrophins stimulate the release of testosterone which support sperm production in the testicles. 

  • Bromocriptine and Cabergoline 

  • Antioxidants and vitamins - There is some evidence to suggest that certain antioxidants and vitamins including zinc, selenium, vitamin C and vitamin E may help to improve the fertility of men with a low sperm count or sperm that isn’t moving properly (low motility). However more research is needed before we can say they are proven to work

Apart from antioxidants and vitamins, all of these drugs can only be obtained on prescription in the UK. 

  • Medication may be the first course of treatment if you have polycystic ovaries 

  • If you have no or irregular periods you may also have drug treatment 

  • Supplements may help with some sperm problems but evidence is poor

  • You should only take medication under the care of a specialist.

Who might be recommended to have fertility drugs? 

Your doctor may recommend that you have medication if: 

  • You've been diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

  • You have a very irregular cycle or ovulation that’s totally unpredictable

  • You’re a man or a woman with fertility problems linked to your pituitary gland (hormones)

  • You’re producing small numbers of sperm or you have sperm with an abnormal movement (low motility)

  • You’re a man and you have certain infections or inflammations

Are there any side effects from taking fertility drugs? 

There can be, although many people taking fertility drugs feel fine. Make sure you let your clinic know if you have any unexpected reactions, including: stomach pains or a bloated stomach, hot flushes, breathing difficulty, mood swings, heavy periods, breast tenderness, insomnia, increased urination, spots, headaches, weight gain, dizziness, and vaginal dryness. 

If you take gonadotrophins you’re also at risk of OHSS, a severe and potentially life-threatening side effect. 

Can I take fertility drugs myself without having to go to a clinic? 

Fertility drugs will only work if you’ve been successfully diagnosed and you’re taking the right medication for your diagnosis. Some of these medications also carry serious side effects. For these reasons, we always recommend being treated by a specialist from a licensed UK fertility clinic. Not only will they be able to prescribe you the right medication, they’ll also be able to move you onto alternative treatments at the appropriate time if medication isn’t successful. 

Your GP should be able to refer you to a clinic or if you’d prefer to go private (pay for treatment) you can choose a fertility clinic on our website. 

Can I get fertility drugs on the NHS? 

In many cases, yes you should be able to get these medications as long as they’ve been prescribed. Talk to your GP for more information about whether you qualify for free treatment. 

What are the next steps if fertility drugs don’t work? 

It very much depends on your situation and the reason why the drugs weren’t successful (if your doctor is able to find a reason). Your treatment options could include, in vitro fertilisation (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), intrauterine insemination (IUI) or surrogacy. In some cases, you may want to consider using donated eggs, sperm or embryos in treatment*. 

*Please be aware that using donated genetic material involves complex Halachic questions with potentially far-reaching ramifications. As such, it is essential to consult with a Rabbinic authority with specific expertise in this area when deciding upon a course of action. Chana is happy to support you in arranging this, if you would find this helpful. 

Ovulation induction 

Ovulation problems can be treated with tablets, usually Clomifene (Clomid) or Tamoxifen, or with gonadotrophin drugs. It is important that you are carefully monitored when on any drugs to avoid over stimulation of the ovaries. If you produce multiple eggs, there is a much higher risk of a multiple pregnancy.

References - https://www.hfea.gov.uk/treatments/explore-all-treatments/ 

https://fertilitynetworkuk.org/trying-to-conceive/fertility-treatment/fertility-treatment-options/ 


The above content is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your GP or Doctor if you have any questions regarding your health.