Evista (generic name: raloxifene) is prescribed for postmenopausal women to treat and prevent osteoporosis. It is also prescribed for those in whom estrogen therapy is not recommended. Evista can also help reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis or those at high risk for breast cancer.
Evista belongs to a group of drugs called selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). It mimics some of estrogen’s effects on the body after menopause. When women go through menopause, their estrogen levels drop. Evista helps by providing similar effects to estrogen during this stage.
Dosage
The doctor will decide the dosage and treatment method. The usual dosage is one tablet taken daily. The tablet can be consumed with or without food. The prescribed dose should not be exceeded. Take the tablets whole with water. Breaking or crushing the tablet is not advised, as it may alter the taste and dosage. A doctor may suggest calcium or vitamin D supplements to prevent osteoporosis, if daily intake is insufficient.
Caution
Evista is designed exclusively for postmenopausal women and is not suitable for those who are still able to conceive.
Questran (cholestyramine) reduces the rate of absorption of raloxifene. Therefore, these two medications should be taken several hours apart.
Storage
Store Evista at a temperature below 77°F. For more tips on how to store medication properly, please read our friendly blog on handling medicine safely.
FAQ
How long does it take for Evista to work?
Studies indicate that Evista effectively reduced bone turnover within three months and maintained this effect throughout the trial period of either 24 or 36 months.
Do I need to take calcium with raloxifene?
Supplementing calcium and vitamin D alongside weight-bearing exercise is an additional measure to complement raloxifene in preventing or treating bone loss. Consult with a physician to explore these possibilities further.
How long should you take Evista for osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis medications are usually prescribed for extended periods, often spanning several years. Throughout this period, your doctor will likely monitor both bone health and overall well-being.
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.Â
Read the information leaflet that comes with the medication.
Most women who use Evista do not experience any adverse side effects. Doctors prescribe this medication because they assess the benefits of such treatment outweigh any likely unwanted effects.
Stop treatment and consult with a doctor if any of the following side effects are felt:
- Pain in the legs or a feeling of heat in the calves
- Swelling of the legs, arms, or feet
- Sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, or a bloody cough
- Sudden change in vision, such as vision loss or blurred vision.
Side effects that have been reported include flu-like symptoms such as joint pain, sinusitis, and hot flashes. Other common effects are leg cramps, chest pain, fever, migraine, nausea, and indigestion.
Not all side effects are listed here. If these or other unlisted symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Osteoporosis: Evista can be prescribed for osteoporosis, which can cause back pain, height loss, and a curved back. A doctor will probably request a bone density scan to diagnose osteoporosis.
Breast Cancer: Symptoms of breast cancer in women may manifest as a lump or swelling in the breast, chest, or armpit, changes in breast skin texture like dimpling or redness, alterations in breast size or shape, nipple discharge, changes in nipple appearance or texture, and persistent breast or armpit pain. Breast cancer is detected through various tests, including breast examination, mammogram, breast ultrasound, and biopsy.