The drug clomiphene citrate is a commonly used fertility drug that is taken on days 5-9 of the menstrual cycle. It is a selective estrogen receptor modulator that induces ovulation by blocking estrogen receptors in the brain. Individuals taking clomiphene citrate would be expected to have an elevation of which of the following hormones?
A. Progesterone
B. FSH
C. Cortisol
D. ACTH
Click for Explanation
B is correct. On days 5-9 of the menstrual cycle, there is a negative feedback loop between estrogen and FSH in which estrogen released by the developing follicle inhibits the release of FSH. This decreases the likelihood of multiple follicles maturing. This drug disrupts this feedback look, resulting in an increase in FSH release which promotes the development of ovarian follicles. Individuals taking this medication do have an increased likelihood of twins. Progesterone, A, is not secreted in significant quantities until after ovulation, where it is released by the corpus luteum. Cortisol, C, and ACTH, D, are not directly involved in the menstrual cycle and would not be significantly impacted.
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