raloxifene – oral, Evista
WARNING: Raloxifene may rarely cause blood clots in the legs or lungs. Tell your doctor if you have a history of blood clots. Also, discuss your risk factors for strokes while taking raloxifene. Some risk factors include tobacco/alcohol use, high cholesterol/diabetes, or heart disease. Discuss these risks and benefits with your doctor.
USES: Raloxifene prevents and treats bone loss (osteoporosis) in postmenopausal women. It may also lower the chance of invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. This drug works by acting like estrogen in certain parts of the body. It helps maintain bone mass, but does not affect the breast and uterus or relieve menopausal symptoms. Not recommended for use in premenopausal women or children. Not used to prevent heart disease.
HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide before starting raloxifene. Take this medication by mouth once a day, with or without food, or as directed by your doctor. Use regularly for maximum benefit. Remember to take it at the same time each day. Include adequate calcium and vitamin D in your diet, and consult your doctor or pharmacist about supplements. Pregnant women should not handle this medication or breathe in the dust from the tablets.
SIDE EFFECTS: Hot flashes, sweating, or leg cramps may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist. Raloxifene may rarely cause stroke or blood clots in the legs, lungs, or eyes. Seek immediate medical attention if any serious side effects occur. An allergic reaction to this drug is rare. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction. This is not a complete list of side effects. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
PRECAUTIONS: Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to raloxifene or have any other allergies. This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Lack of movement increases the risk of blood clots. Stop taking raloxifene before surgery or long periods of inactivity. Before taking this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist of your medical history, especially if you have kidney/liver disease, high blood pressure, smoking, heart/blood vessel disease, cancer, high cholesterol levels, or a history of high blood fat levels due to estrogen treatment. This medication should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Before using this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription/nonprescription/herbal products you use, especially cholestyramine and estrogens. This product can affect the results of certain lab tests.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Follow your doctor’s instructions for examining your breasts. Lifestyle changes that promote healthy bones include weight-bearing exercise, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and eating a well-balanced diet. Periodic medical tests should be performed to monitor your progress or check for side effects.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Brief storage at permitted temperatures is allowed. Keep away from children and pets. Properly discard when expired or no longer needed.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
CONDITIONS OF USE: This information is intended to supplement the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. It is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects. Consult a healthcare professional before taking any drug, changing your diet, or starting/stopping any course of treatment.
