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Potential Teratogenic Effects of Clomiphene Citrate

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Abstract

Clomiphene citrate (CC) is the oldest drug used to regulate the process of ovulation. Considering the great use of CC over the last 40 years, it is important to understand the possible risks associated with its use. The aim of this review was to evaluate the possible teratogenic effects of CC, analyzing results obtained from animal and human studies. The pharmacokinetics of CC and possible mechanisms involved in teratogenesis are examined. Fetal exposure to CC is possible due to the long half-life of CC and its metabolites. Alarming data have emerged from animal studies, although controversial results come from human studies. There is some evidence regarding a possible association of CC exposure and fetal malformations, mainly neural tube defects and hypospadias, which would require further investigation in order to allow safer use of this useful drug.

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Mrs. Rose Chilman, a native English speaker, for the initial proofreading check and correction of the manuscript, and Mr. Salvatore Di Giallonardo, who has subsequently performed a professional language editing service for proper American spelling, grammar, and syntax.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy

    Alessandra Scaparrotta & Francesco Chiarelli

  2. Department of Pediatrics, University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy

    Alberto Verrotti

Authors
  1. Alessandra Scaparrotta
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  2. Francesco Chiarelli
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  3. Alberto Verrotti
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Correspondence to Alessandra Scaparrotta.

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No sources of funding were used in the preparation of this study.

Conflict of interest

Scaparrotta Alessandra, Chiarelli Francesco, and Verrotti Alberto have no conflicts of interest that are directly relevant to the content of this study.

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Scaparrotta, A., Chiarelli, F. & Verrotti, A. Potential Teratogenic Effects of Clomiphene Citrate. Drug Saf 40, 761–769 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40264-017-0546-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40264-017-0546-x

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