Clomid (clomiphene citrate) is a popular fertility medication that has been used since the 1960s to induce ovulation in women who are having difficulty getting pregnant. But is Clomid considered a controlled substance? The short answer is no, Clomid is not currently classified as a controlled substance in the United States.
Clomid works by blocking estrogen receptors in the brain, which causes the body to increase production of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). This spike in FSH and LH prompts ovulation. Clomid is often prescribed by reproductive endocrinologists to treat infertility issues like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and ovarian problems.
While Clomid is widely prescribed, there has been some debate over whether it should be categorized as a controlled substance due to a handful of studies citing the potential for abuse. However, at this time, Clomid is not categorized as a controlled substance under the United States Controlled Substances Act or other federal regulations.
What are controlled substances?
The Controlled Substances Act, passed by the U.S. Congress in 1970, established federal U.S. drug policy and regulates the manufacture, importation, possession, use and distribution of certain drugs and chemicals. There are five schedules used to classify controlled substances based on their accepted medical use and potential for abuse or dependence:
Schedule I
Substances in this schedule have no currently accepted medical use in the United States and have a high potential for abuse. Some examples include heroin, LSD, marijuana, and methaqualone.
Schedule II
Substances in this schedule have a high potential for abuse which may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. Examples include hydrocodone, cocaine, oxycodone, fentanyl, and methamphetamine.
Schedule III
Substances in this schedule have a potential for abuse less than substances in Schedules I or II but still may lead to moderate or low physical dependence or high psychological dependence. Examples include ketamine, anabolic steroids, and testosterone.
Schedule IV
Substances in this schedule have a low potential for abuse and low risk of dependence. Some examples include alprazolam, clonazepam, and diazepam.
Schedule V
Substances in this schedule have lower potential for abuse than Schedule IV and consist of preparations containing limited quantities of certain narcotics. Examples include cough preparations containing not more than 200 milligrams of codeine per 100 milliliters.
Is there potential for Clomid abuse?
Clomid is not currently classified in any of the five schedules of controlled substances in the United States. However, there has been some debate about the potential for Clomid abuse:
– A handful of studies from the 1980s and 90s referenced the possibility of Clomid abuse among athletes and bodybuilders who used it to help restart natural testosterone production after anabolic steroid cycles.
– Some case reports have cited instances of women taking Clomid without a prescription or medical supervision to increase their chances of having twins.
– There have been a few reports of mild withdrawal symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings when stopping Clomid after long-term use.
However, Clomid is not generally believed to have a high potential for abuse or cause severe physical or psychological dependence, which is why it has not been categorized as a controlled substance. The benefits of Clomid for treating infertility usually outweigh any small risks of abuse.
How Clomid prescriptions are regulated
While not a controlled substance, there are still some regulations around Clomid prescriptions:
– In the United States, Clomid can only be prescribed by a doctor and is not available over-the-counter. It should only be used under the guidance of a fertility specialist.
– Doctors cannot prescribe Clomid to those with certain medical conditions like liver disease, abnormal uterine bleeding, or ovarian cysts.
– Prescriptions for Clomid are time-limited and require regular follow-up and monitoring. Doctors usually will not provide an unlimited supply of Clomid.
– The FDA provides strict oversight and regulation of Clomid manufacture and distribution. Pharmacies must have proper licensing to dispense Clomid.
So while Clomid prescriptions are regulated by doctors and the FDA, individuals are not criminalized for possession of Clomid without a prescription in the same way as controlled substances. But using Clomid without oversight can be risky and is not recommended.
Reasons Clomid is not a controlled substance
The DEA and FDA have decided not to categorize Clomid as a controlled substance for the following reasons:
Low potential for abuse and addiction
Studies show the potential for abuse and dependence is low compared to substances in the controlled substances schedules. Clomid does not provide any euphoric effects sought by those who abuse drugs recreationally.
Valid medical uses
Clomid is widely accepted in the medical community as an effective ovulatory stimulant to treat legitimate fertility issues in women. Controlled substance designation would make it much harder for patients to access Clomid.
Lack of evidence of widespread abuse
Aside from a handful of isolated case reports, there is not sufficient evidence Clomid is being widely abused or misused compared to controlled substances.
Mild side effects
The side effects of Clomid tend to be mild (hot flashes, mood swings, headaches) when used under medical supervision. More dangerous side effects are rare.
Low risk of overdose
There is very little risk of overdosing on Clomid when used appropriately as prescribed by a doctor. No fatal overdoses of Clomid have been reported.
Conclusion
In summary, Clomid is not currently classified as a controlled substance in the United States. While there has been some debate about the risks for abuse and regulation of access, the DEA and FDA have determined there is not sufficient evidence of widespread abuse, addiction, or danger to public health to designate Clomid as a controlled substance. Doctors may regulate access to Clomid, but individuals do not face criminal charges for possession of Clomid without a prescription. When used correctly under medical supervision, Clomid offers important benefits to those struggling with infertility.