For more detailed information on the actions, administration and possible side effects for each of the following medications, please consult the Package Insert, available on-line and at pharmacies.
The information provided here regarding particular medications is intended solely for general information and should NOT be relied upon for any particular diagnosis, treatment, or care. Inclusion in this list does not imply an endorsement by NOF or of Dr. Stone of any particular medication or manufacturer.
For more detailed information on the actions, administration and possible side effects for each of the following medications, please consult the Package Insert, available on-line and at pharmacies.
Raloxifene
(Brand name Evista®)
Raloxifene, 60 mg a day, is approved for the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. It is from a class of drugs called Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) that have been developed to provide the beneficial effects of estrogens without their potential disadvantages. Raloxifene increases bone mass and reduces the risk of spine fractures. Data are not yet available to demonstrate that raloxifene can reduce the risk of hip and other non-spine fractures.
Raloxifene appears to decrease the risk of estrogen-dependent breast cancer by 65% over 4 years.
While side effects were not common, those reported included hot flashes and deep vein thrombosis, the latter of which is also associated with estrogen therapy. Raloxifene is taken in pill form, once a day with or without meals.
The information on this page was obtained from the National Osteoporosis Foundation website, www.nof.org.
