This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Evista Consumer Information
EVISTA
Generic Name: raloxifene (oral) (rah LOX ih feen)
Brand Names: Evista
What is the most important information I should know about raloxifene?
- Do not take raloxifene if you are pregnant or if you could become pregnant during treatment. Raloxifene is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that raloxifene is known to cause birth defects in an unborn baby.
- Before having any surgery, tell your doctor that you are taking raloxifene. Treatment with raloxifene may need to be stopped temporarily if you require an extended period of bed rest.
- Avoid sitting still for long periods of time during travel while taking raloxifene.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience and of the following side effects that may indicate a blood clot formation: sharp pain in the legs; swelling of the legs; sudden chest pain; coughing up blood; or changes in vision.
What is raloxifene?
- Raloxifene alters the cycle of bone formation and breakdown in the body. It reduces loss of bone tissue. Although studies are not complete, raloxifene appears to work without increasing the risk of breast or uterine cancer.
- Raloxifene is used to treat and prevent osteoporosis (decreased density of bone mass) in postmenopausal women.
- Raloxifene may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking raloxifene?
- Before having any surgery, tell your doctor that you are taking raloxifene. Treatment with raloxifene may need to be stopped temporarily if you require an extended period of bed rest.
- Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have a history of
- blood clots;
- stroke;
- cancer;
- increased triglycerides (a type of fat in the blood); or
- liver disease.
- You may not be able to take raloxifene, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
- Raloxifene is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that raloxifene is known to cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not take raloxifene if you are pregnant or if you could become pregnant during treatment.
- It is not known whether raloxifene passes into breast milk. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take raloxifene?
- Take raloxifene exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Raloxifene can be taken with or without food.
- Take raloxifene at the same time each day.
- Your doctor may want you to take calcium and vitamin D supplements if you do not receive enough of these substances from your regular diet.
- Weight-bearing exercise may also be helpful.
- Store raloxifene at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek medical attention.
- Symptoms of a raloxifene overdose are not known.
What should I avoid while taking raloxifene?
- Before having any surgery, tell your doctor that you are taking raloxifene. Treatment with raloxifene may need to be stopped temporarily if you require an extended period of bed rest.
- Avoid sitting still for long periods of time during travel while taking raloxifene.
- Alcohol and cigarette smoking may cause increased bone loss. Discuss with your doctor the use of these products.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.