Enclomiphene Side Effects: Management, Alternatives and Bodybuilding Use

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

About

Constance Tambakis Odom, MD graduated in 1987 with her Doctorate of Medicine from the New York Medical College, and was an Anesthesiologist Resident from 1988 to 1991 at the Brookdale Medical Center PGY II (CA-I)-PGY IV (CA-III). She is Board Certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology since 1998 and American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine since 2002. Constance Odom, MD is affiliated with the American Medical Association, American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, American Society of Anesthesiology, Georgia Society of Anesthesiology, Hellenic Medical Society of New York, North Carolina Society of Anesthesiology, and Society of Ambulatory Anesthesia.

Credentials

Medical Director At:

• Nu Image Medical
• MetroMedispa P.A.

Staff Anesthesiologist at:

• Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital in Dunn, NC
• Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville, NC
• Duplin General Hospital in Kenansville, NC

Director of Anesthesia Services at:

• Jacksonville Surgery Center in Jacksonville, NC

Written by our editorial team.

Last Edited 1 month ago · 8 min read

Enclomiphene is a medication primarily prescribed to treat male hypogonadism by stimulating the natural production of testosterone. Beyond its primary use, Enclomiphene may also be employed to boost testosterone levels in men and enhance muscle gain.

While Enclomiphene can be highly effective for these purposes, it is not without potential side effects, as any other medication. 

Understanding Enclomiphene side effects and knowing how to manage them is crucial for ensuring a successful and safe treatment journey. This comprehensive guide will explore the common side effects associated with Enclomiphene, offer strategies for counteracting them, and provide insights into when to seek medical advice.

Enclomiphene Side Effects: 

1. Headaches

Headaches are among the most frequently reported side effects. They can vary from mild to severe and may be persistent in some users.

Possible Causes:

1. Hormonal fluctuations due to Enclomiphene’s effect on the endocrine system.
2. Dehydration or insufficient sleep.
3. Tension or stress.

Management Strategies:

• • Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration.
  • Rest: Ensure you get adequate and quality sleep. Establish a regular sleep routine.
  • Pain Relief: Use over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, but consult with your doctor before taking any medication.
  • Consultation: If headaches persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider for possible dosage adjustments.

2. Nausea

Nausea can occur, especially during the initial phase of treatment, as your body adjusts to Enclomiphene.

Possible Causes:

• • Gastrointestinal irritation.
  • Hormonal changes affecting the digestive system.
    

Management Strategies:

• Food Intake: Take Enclomiphene with food to minimize stomach irritation. Opt for bland, easily digestible foods.
• Meal Size: Eat smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones to reduce nausea.
• Ginger or Peppermint: Natural remedies like ginger tea or peppermint may help alleviate nausea.
• Consultation: If nausea is severe or persistent, consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend an anti-nausea medication or adjust your dosage.

3. Mood Swings

Mood swings, including irritability, anxiety, and depression, can be experienced during Enclomiphene treatment.

Possible Causes:

• • Hormonal changes affecting mood-regulating neurotransmitters.
  • Stress or life changes.

Management Strategies:

• Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to boost mood and reduce stress. Activities like jogging, swimming, or cycling can be beneficial.
• Diet: Maintain a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to support mental health.
• Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga.
• Professional Support: If mood swings are severe or affecting your daily life, seek advice from a mental health professional.

4. Vision Changes

Some users may experience visual disturbances such as blurred vision or difficulty focusing.

Possible Causes:

• • Hormonal fluctuations affecting eye function.
  • Potential impact on blood flow to the eyes.

Management Strategies:

• • Avoid Hazardous Activities: Refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience visual disturbances.
  • Eye Exam: Schedule a comprehensive eye examination to rule out other causes.
  • Consultation: Discuss any vision changes with your healthcare provider, who may evaluate your treatment plan.

5. Gynecomastia

Overview: Gynecomastia, or the enlargement of breast tissue in men, can occasionally occur with Enclomiphene use.

Possible Causes:

• • Hormonal imbalances leading to increased estrogen activity.

Management Strategies:

• • Monitoring: Regularly monitor for changes in breast tissue. Report any tenderness or swelling to your healthcare provider.
  • Medical Evaluation: Your doctor may perform a physical examination and possibly recommend further tests.
  • Treatment Options: Depending on severity, treatment options may include adjusting your dosage or adding medications to counteract estrogenic effects.

6. Elevated Liver Enzymes

Overview: Enclomiphene can lead to elevated liver enzyme levels, which are typically detected through routine blood tests.

Possible Causes:

• • Liver metabolism of the medication.

Management Strategies:

• • Regular Monitoring: Undergo regular blood tests to monitor liver function.
  • Dosage Adjustment: If elevated enzyme levels are detected, your doctor may adjust your dosage or recommend alternative treatments.
  • Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and avoid alcohol to support liver health.

How to Avoid Enclomiphene Side Effects

1. Adhere to Dosage Instructions

Taking Enclomiphene exactly as prescribed can minimize the risk of side effects. Avoid adjusting your dosage without consulting your healthcare provider.

2. Monitor Your Health Regularly

Regular health check-ups, including blood tests and physical exams, can help catch any emerging side effects early. This proactive approach allows for timely adjustments to your treatment plan.

3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the likelihood and severity of side effects. Focus on:

• Balanced Diet: Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
• Regular Exercise: Engage in physical activities that you enjoy.
• Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
• Stress Management: Practice techniques to manage stress effectively, such as meditation or mindfulness.

4. Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration supports overall health and can help mitigate some side effects, such as headaches and nausea.

5. Communicate with Your Healthcare Provider

Regularly discuss any new or worsening symptoms with your healthcare provider. Open communication helps in adjusting your treatment plan as needed.

How Enclomiphene Compares with Similar Alternatives

1. HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)

HCG is often used in conjunction with other treatments to stimulate testosterone production and address low testosterone levels.

Side Effects:

• Potential side effects of HCG include headaches, fatigue, mood swings, and gynecomastia.

Comparison:

• Enclomiphene primarily works by stimulating the body’s own production of testosterone through its effects on the pituitary gland.
• HCG mimics luteinizing hormone (LH) to directly stimulate testosterone production from the testes.

2. Clomid (Clomiphene Citrate)

Clomid, like Enclomiphene, is a SERM used to treat low testosterone levels and male infertility by increasing the production of hormones needed for testosterone production.

Side Effects:

• Common side effects of Clomid include mood swings, visual disturbances, and nausea, which are similar to those of Enclomiphene.

Comparison:

• Enclomiphene is a more selective form of Clomiphene that targets specific estrogen receptors related to testosterone production.
• Clomid can affect other estrogen receptors and may have a broader range of side effects.

Is There Any Side Effects When Taking Enclomiphene for Bodybuilding?

Enclomiphene is sometimes used off-label by bodybuilders to enhance testosterone levels and improve muscle growth. However, using Enclomiphene for bodybuilding can have specific side effects.

Possible Side Effects:

• Hormonal Imbalance: High doses or improper use can lead to hormonal imbalances, potentially causing issues like gynecomastia or mood swings.
• Impact on Natural Hormone Production: Overuse may suppress natural testosterone production once treatment ends.
• Liver Strain: Increased doses might put additional strain on the liver.

Management Strategies:

• Consultation: Always consult a healthcare provider before using Enclomiphene for bodybuilding. They can help manage dosages and monitor side effects.
• Regular Monitoring: Undergo regular health check-ups to monitor for any adverse effects.
• Adhere to Safe Practices: Use Enclomiphene responsibly, following recommended dosages and avoiding misuse.

Conclusion

Navigating the side effects of Enclomiphene requires careful management and collaboration with your healthcare provider. By understanding potential side effects, adopting effective management strategies, and comparing Enclomiphene with similar treatments, you can make informed decisions about your therapy. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and adjustments to your treatment plan.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your physician about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Nu Image Medical may not offer the medications or services mentioned in this article.