 Evista (Raloxifene) is a Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM) used
to treat and prevent osteoporosis (decreased density of bone mass) in women
after menopause. SERMs are structurally different from hormones, including
estrogens and progestins. Raloxifene alters the cycle of bone formation and
breakdown in the body and reduces the amount of calcium lost from bones and
helps to prevent bone loss and to increase normal healthy bone formation in patients with
osteoporosis. Raloxifene does NOT reduce hot flashes associated with estrogen deficiency.
Common brand names include: Evista, Bonmax, Keoxifene, Optruma and Osral
Ordering options for Raloxifene, including Evista, Bonmax and Osral are below.
No prescription is needed, but some pharmacies will require a consultation via questionnaire to
enable their staff physician to issue a prescription (this is a free consultation).
Other pharmacies do not require a consultation (no consultation needed)*
Click Here to View More Medications for Menopause and Osteoporosis
Warnings 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 receiving any surgery, inform the hospital that you are
taking raloxifene, as raloxifene may need to be suspended temporarily.
Avoid sitting still for long periods of time during travel or if working at a desk.
Seek urgent medical attention if you experience any of the following:
sharp pain in the legs, swelling of the legs, sudden chest pain, coughing up blood or changes
in vision. (these symptoms may indicate a blood clot formation).
Drug Interactions
You may not be able to take raloxifene, or you may require special monitoring or a dosage
adjustment if you are taking any of the following medications:
cholestyramine (Questran, Prevalite) or colestipol (Colestid) or warfarin (Coumadin); or any
estrogen or progesterone product such as birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with raloxifene, check with your doctor.
Raloxifene Side effects
If any of the following serious side effects occur, cease raloxifene and seek medical attention:
allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of lips, tongue, or face) :
sharp pain or swelling of the legs : sudden chest pain : coughing up blood : changes in vision :
unexplained vaginal bleeding.
Other, less serious side effects are more likely to occur,
if so continue to take raloxifene and talk to your doctor if you experience :
leg cramps, muscle soreness, weight gain, sweating, hot flashes or rash.
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