Indications
Evista (active ingredient: raloxifene) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women: Evista is used for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. It helps increase bone mineral density and reduce the risk of vertebral fractures.
- Reduction of Risk of Invasive Breast Cancer: Evista is indicated to reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis and in postmenopausal women at high risk of invasive breast cancer.
Evista belongs to a class of drugs known as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). It works by mimicking the effects of estrogen on bone density while blocking estrogen's effects on breast tissue, thereby helping to prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Uses and Dosage
Evista (raloxifene) comes in the form of a tablet which should be taken by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. It is important to take this medication regularly to get the maximum benefit from it, and to help you remember, take it at the same time each day. The tablet should be swallowed whole; do not crush or chew it, as it has a bitter taste.
The recommended dosage of Evista (raloxifene hydrochloride tablets) is one 60 mg tablet per day, which can be taken at any time of the day without regard to meals. This dosage should not be exceeded, as taking a higher dosage may increase the risk of side effects.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Raloxifene:
- Flu symptoms
- hot flashes
- Increased sweating
- Joint pain
- Leg cramps
- Swelling in your hands, feet, or ankles
Serious Side Effects of Raloxifene:
- Swelling, tenderness, or other changes in your breasts
- Signs of a stroke
- Slurred speech
- Sudden numbness
- Vision problems
- Weakness (especially on one side of the body)
- Signs of a blood clot in the lung
- Chest pain
- Coughing up blood
- Trouble breathing
- Signs of a blood clot deep in the body
- Redness in an arm or leg
- Swelling
- Warmth
Form and Strength
Evista (Raloxifene) is available in the following forms and strength:
Evista: Tablet
- 60 mg
Raloxifene: Tablet
- 60 mg
Caution
- Active or past history of venous thromboembolism, including deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and retinal vein thrombosis are contraindications to Evista (raloxifene). It is important to inform your doctor if you have a history of any of these conditions before taking Evista.
- Taking Evista (raloxifene) may increase your risk of a blood clot in your leg, your lung, or your eye. You should not take this medicine if you have ever had a blood clot, as the risk of a blood clot may be greater if you have a history of blood clots.
- Evista increases risk of stroke, which can be fatal, especially if you have coronary heart disease or risk factors such as diabetes, smoking, being overweight, high blood pressure or cholesterol, or a family history of coronary artery disease.
- Evista is for use only in women who can no longer get pregnant. It should not be taken by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it can cause harm to the baby.
- If you need major surgery or will be on long-term bed rest, you will need to stop taking Evista (raloxifene) at least 3 days ahead of time. You may not be able to restart the medicine until you are active again, so it is important to tell any doctor or surgeon who treats you that you are taking this medicine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does Evista work?
Evista works by binding to estrogen receptors in bones and tissues, mimicking some of the beneficial effects of estrogen without its adverse effects. This helps to maintain bone strength and reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer.
What is the recommended dosage of Evista?
The recommended dosage for Evista is one 60 mg tablet daily, which may be taken at any time of day without regard to meals.
Is Evista safe for long-term use?
Evista has been approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for long-term use and is considered safe for postmenopausal women at increased risk of developing breast cancer. However, as with any medication, long-term use of Evista should be discussed with your doctor to ensure it is appropriate for your particular situation.
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