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Clomiphene citrate-induced visual hallucinations: a case report
Identifier
027439
Type of Spiritual Experience
Background
Clomifene, also known as clomiphene, is a medication used to treat infertility in women who do not ovulate. This includes those who have polycystic ovary syndrome. Use results in a greater chance of twins.[2] It is taken by mouth once a day.
Common side effects include pelvic pain and hot flushes. Other side effects can include changes in vision, vomiting, trouble sleeping, ovarian cancer, and seizures. It is not recommended in people with liver disease or who are pregnant. Clomifene is in the selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) family of medication
A description of the experience
J Med Case Rep. 2017 Mar 6;11(1):60. doi: 10.1186/s13256-017-1228-0.
Clomiphene citrate-induced visual hallucinations: a case report.
Venkatesh R1, Gujral GS2, Gurav P2, Tibrewal S2, Mathur U2.
Author information
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common cause of chronic anovulation and infertility in otherwise healthy fertile couples. Clomiphene citrate is used as a first-line ovulation induction therapy in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Clomiphene citrate can cause both systemic and ocular side effects. We report a rare side effect of illusory palinopsias in a patient with polycystic ovary syndrome treated with ovulation induction therapy with clomiphene citrate, and emphasize the need for gynecologists and their patients to be aware of this rare ocular side effect.
CASE PRESENTATION:
A 30-year-old Asian woman complained of persistent visual afterimages following treatment with 100 mg clomiphene citrate for anovulation. Her symptoms started on the fourth day after commencing the treatment and would last for 5 to 10 minutes. Similar visual symptoms were noted during her second cycle of treatment with clomiphene citrate. The severity of her symptoms reduced following the stoppage of the medication; however, the symptoms have persisted for more than 1 year since she stopped taking the drug.
CONCLUSIONS:
Clomiphene citrate can cause disturbing illusory palinopsias. These afterimages persist even after stopping the infertility medication. It is a side effect not frequently seen by gynecologists or ophthalmologists. Gynecologists should make their patients aware of this rare ocular side effect when their patients start treatment with clomiphene citrate for infertility.
KEYWORDS:
Clomiphene citrate; Palinopsia; Polycystic ovarian syndrome; Side effects
PMID:
28260524