Raloxifene
Postmenopausal Osteoporosis, Osteoporosis, Postmenopausal
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
Possible
Pharmaceutical Class
Estrogen Agonist/Antagonist
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Raloxifene
Summary
Raloxifene is used to prevent and treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Additionally, it can reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women who are at high risk or have osteoporosis.
Raloxifene acts as a selective estrogen receptor modulator. It mimics estrogen's beneficial effects on bone density, while blocking estrogen's potentially harmful effects on breast tissue. This dual action helps prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer.
The usual daily dose of Raloxifene for adults is one 60 mg tablet taken once a day. It should be taken with or without food at the same time each day.
Common side effects of Raloxifene include hot flashes, leg cramps, and peripheral edema. Serious adverse effects include an increased risk of venous thromboembolism and stroke. Other side effects can include headaches, nausea, vomiting, and weight gain.
Raloxifene is contraindicated in women with a history of venous thromboembolism, pregnancy, and severe renal or hepatic impairment. It should not be used by breastfeeding women or women of childbearing potential. It's also important to monitor for increased risk of blood clots and stroke, especially in elderly patients or those with a history of these conditions.
Indications and Purpose
How does Raloxifene work?
Raloxifene acts as a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), mimicking estrogen's effects on bones to increase density and blocking estrogen's effects on breast tissue to prevent cancer growth.
Is Raloxifene effective?
Raloxifene has been shown to increase bone mineral density and reduce the risk of vertebral fractures in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. It also reduces the risk of invasive breast cancer in women with osteoporosis or at high risk for breast cancer.
What is Raloxifene?
Raloxifene is used to treat and prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and to reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer in women with osteoporosis or at high risk for breast cancer. It works by mimicking estrogen to increase bone density and blocking estrogen effects on breast tissue to prevent cancer growth.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Raloxifene?
Raloxifene is intended for long-term use, especially for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis. The exact duration should be determined by a healthcare provider based on individual needs.
How do I take Raloxifene?
Take Raloxifene once daily, with or without food, at the same time each day. There are no specific food restrictions while taking this medication.
How long does it take for Raloxifene to start working?
Raloxifene may take several months to show its full effects on bone density. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended to assess its effectiveness.
How should I store Raloxifene?
Store Raloxifene at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.
What is the usual dose of Raloxifene?
The usual daily dose for adults is one 60 mg tablet taken once a day. Raloxifene is not recommended for use in children.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Raloxifene with other prescription drugs?
Raloxifene should not be taken with cholestyramine or systemic estrogens. It may interact with warfarin, requiring closer monitoring of prothrombin time.
Can Raloxifene be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Raloxifene is not recommended for use while breastfeeding, as it is unknown if it passes into breast milk and what effect it might have on the baby.
Can Raloxifene be taken safely while pregnant?
Raloxifene is contraindicated during pregnancy as it may cause fetal harm. Women who are pregnant or could become pregnant should not take this medication.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Raloxifene?
Raloxifene does not specifically limit the ability to exercise. However, it may cause leg cramps, which could affect physical activity. If you experience leg cramps, consult your doctor for advice.
Is Raloxifene safe for the elderly?
Raloxifene is generally safe for elderly patients, but they should be monitored for side effects like blood clots and stroke. No dose adjustment is necessary for the elderly.
Who should avoid taking Raloxifene?
Raloxifene increases the risk of blood clots and stroke. It should not be used by women with a history of blood clots or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is also contraindicated in women with severe liver or kidney impairment.
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